Willie McBride - Jake Burns (Stiff Little Fingers)

No Man's Land" (also known as "The Green Fields of France" and "Willie McBride") is a song written in 1976 by Scottish-Australian singer-songwriter Eric Bogle, reflecting on the grave of a young man who died in World War I. The song is sung by Jake Burns lead in punk outfit Stiff Little Fingers. Most artists who cover this song lament the loss of young life, Burns rants about the tragic death. This is a cracking version.

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[jimifitz138]

@setaoca by american i meant serving in the american army. i have only seen a picture of a Pfc William McBride US Army gravestone. mrcopperhead brought up a good point. my grandad moved to st. louis in 1939 and when he was drafted into the american army, he went AWOL in france for 6 years. they tracked him down and incarcerated him in a federal penetentiary.

[worcesterjonny]

The opening picture is the gravestone of William McBride of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers who died in 1916. Therefore, this Willie McBride tied in with the song. I'm not saying it is the soldier talked about in the song, but its close enough. Thanks for the comments - Worcesterjonny

[Bobby Peterson]

i shed a tear for every man that has layed down his life for me and my fellow countrymen and my brothers across the pond, thank you jake burns for making me thankful for living everyday, though i feel sorry i never served, cheers to all that died for my freedom,

[tamus bamus]

wonderful song, very moving video - well done Jake Burns

[Grant O'Neil]

I like this version. I made a video of Eric Bogle's version of the song. Hope you enjoy it.

[traceym196561]

Its no relavent jake burns u should have stayed in this country. Weans no are no listining

[chriszz9ch]

I miss you grandpa

[spercepolnes21]

My family in New Zealand had a friend "Willie McBride", who went to the war - fortunately he came back, unlike so many others (36 family and close friends who didn't), so the name strikes a particular resonance ....June Tabor does a very powerful version in the We Died In Hell, They Called It Passchendaele album....

[Jasper Ter Horst]

Watching these flicks always makes me feel so down inside. Awesome song though.

[barrach7]

Lest we not forget: Almost 1000% more innocent civilians were killed by 'military' attacks during wars. Let's not forget them either...and LEARN: There is ALWAYS an alternative to war. No sentiments, no jingoistic, evil crap....jusy common sense: NO MORE WARS...

[Ray Ring]

I have heard this song sung in a gentle way,but with the arrangement you angry comes through and is less sentimental. I like it.

[courtfarm1]

i have to be honest i do not like this version of the song, i prefer the fureys version..................1

[markh601]

yes mate i agree tmtch version is the best version but this is good