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Explore 10 Most Famous Irish Songs of All Time

Music Industry

Famous Irish Songs
02 Sep, 2024

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Irish songs are more than just melodies; they are the echoes of centuries-old traditions, the chronicles of historical events, and the heartbeats of its people. From soulful ballads to lively jigs, famous Irish songs captivate listeners with their rich narratives and emotive tunes. Starting from Linger to On Ragan Land, every traditional folk song represents a diversified Irish culture.

This comprehensive guide highlights the most famous Irish songs, unraveling their stories, meanings, and the indelible mark they have left on the music world. Join us as we discuss the songs that have made Ireland’s musical heritage timeless.

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List of Famous Irish Songs

1: Linger (The Cranberries)

Date of Release: February 15, 1993

Album: Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?

Genre: Alternative Rock, Pop

Songwriter: Dolores O’Riordan, Noel Hogan

Producer: Stephen Street

Linger, written by lead vocalist Dolores O’Riordan (1971-2018) and guitarist Noel Hogan, features an acoustic arrangement with a string section. Dolores O’Riordan wrote the lyrics about being rejected by a boy she liked after he asked another girl to dance at a disco. The song reflects the emotions of longing and lingering feelings after a first romantic encounter.

The song gained international popularity and critical acclaim, which made it one of the band’s most iconic tracks. It remains a significant part of The Cranberries’ legacy, symbolizing their contribution to 90s alternative rock music.

The song is the band’s first major hit, reaching #3 in Ireland and #14 in the UK, #8 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and #11 on the Cash Box Top 100. It ranked on the US Billboard Hot 100 for 24 weeks and stood at #3 on the Triple J Hottest 100 chart in Australia in 1993.

2: Fisherman’s Blues (The Waterboys)

Date of Release: December 1988

Album: Fisherman’s Blues

Genre: Folk Rock

Songwriter: Mike Scott, Steve Wickham

Producer: Mike Scott

Fisherman’s Blue by band The Waterboys was an Irish hit song inspired by Mike Scott’s feelings during a strained relationship with the band’s manager, Gary Kurfirst. The song lyrics were partially inspired by W. H. Auden’s poem “The Night Mail” and demonstrate a desire to have a life free from all problems.

The song reflects a longing for freedom and a simpler life, often associated with the romanticized notion of a fisherman’s life.

Jerry Smith of Music Week praised the song as a “rousing anthem” that evokes a sense of celebration. Furthermore, the song reached #3 on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, #13 in Ireland, and #32 in the UK. It was reissued in 1991, reaching #17 in Ireland and #75 in the UK.

The song Fisherman’s Blue was also featured in the Hollywood movie Good Will Hunting and the Irish film Waking Ned. It continues to be known as one of the famous Irish songs ever written for its catchy tune and heartfelt lyrics.

3: Sunday Bloody Sunday (U2)

Date of Release: March 21, 1983

Album: War

Genre: Post-punk

Songwriter: U2

Producer: Steve Lillywhite

“Sunday Bloody Sunday” is a song by the Irish rock band U2, which is known for its militaristic drumbeat, harsh guitar, and melodic harmonies. It features a distinctive drum sound achieved by recording Larry Mullen Jr.’s drum work at the base of a staircase, producing a natural reverb.

The song’s lyrics describe the horror experienced by an observer of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, focusing on the 1972 Bloody Sunday incident in Derry, where British troops shot and killed unarmed civil rights protesters. It conveys a powerful anti-violence message and expresses the band’s frustration and desire for peace.

The song was first performed live in December 1982 in Glasgow, Scotland, and was praised for its powerful message, musical composition, and lasting cultural impact. It reached #3 on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, #13 in Ireland, and #32 in the UK. In 2004, it was ranked 268th on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

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4: The Rocky Road to Dublin (The High Kings)

Genre: Folk

Songwriter: D. K. Gavan

“The Rocky Road to Dublin” was first recorded by the Clancy Brothers and later by the Dubliners in 1964. The song is one of several 19th-century Irish ballads with even older roots.

The lyrics describe the adventures of an Irish traveler seeking his fortune. The song narrates his experiences with womanizing, being robbed, and being mocked for his accent before receiving help from his countrymen in Liverpool. “The Rocky Road to Dublin” is widely sung among tourists visiting Ireland and at traditional music sessions catering to tourists.

The song is performed in Dorian mode with a typical Irish rhythm. It is classified as a hop jig in 12/8 timing, with variations in lyrics and extra beats between chorus and verse. The song has become a standard of Irish folk music, often performed instrumentally.

5: Carrickfergus (Van Morrison)

Date of Release: 1988

Genre: Folk song

Songwriter: Cathal Buí Mac Giolla Ghunna

The song was first included in the album “The First Hurrah!” Later, in 1965, Dominic Behan released a different version, “The Kerry Boatman.”

The song’s lyrics describe the experiences of an Irish traveler reminiscing about his past, particularly fond memories of a loved one. Numerous artists, including Joan Baez, Loudon Wainwright III, The Chieftains, The Dubliners, and Van Morrison performed it.

The melody traces back to the Irish-language song “Do Bhí Bean Uasal” (“There Was a Noblewoman”). Classified as one of the famous Irish songs with a haunting and melancholic tune, the song was performed by Loudon Wainwright III over the closing credits of an episode of “Boardwalk Empire.”

6: Grace (Various)

Date of Release: 1985

Genre: Folk

Songwriters: Sean and Frank O’Meara

The song, Grace, gained prominence in 2016, especially among Celtic fans, notably at the Celtic 3-3 match against Manchester City.

The song has been performed by several artists, including Jim McCann, The Wolfe Tones, John McDermott, Barleycorn, and Anthony Kearns. Jim McCann, who often played with The Dubliners, had significant success with the song.

“Grace” tells the tragic story of Joseph Plunkett and Grace Gifford, who married just hours before Joseph was executed for his role in the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin. Grace Gifford, a Protestant, faced family disapproval for her relationship with Plunkett, a Catholic mystic and poet. The song captures their brief wedding and the sorrow of Plunkett’s execution, making it one of the saddest but most famous Irish songs.

7: On Raglan Road (Luke Kelly)

Date of Release: 1971

Album: Hometown!

Genre: Folk

Songwriter: Patrick Kavanagh

The song, first published on October 3, 1946, in The Irish Press under the title “Dark Haired Miriam Ran Away,” Is a profound reflection of Kavanagh’s bittersweet love affair with a much younger woman. Despite the risk of heartbreak, he pursued the relationship, leading to inevitable sorrow. The song’s themes of unrequited love, the passage of time, and the pain of loss are deeply emotional, resonating profoundly with the audience.

Based on a poem set to the traditional Irish tune “The Dawning of the Day,” the song ‘On Raglan Road’ is a masterpiece in Irish music. Its poignant lyrics and haunting melody have captivated audiences, leading to its widespread popularity.

It is frequently performed by various artists and featured in numerous compilations, including The Dubliners’ live album Hometown! and the 1986 compilation album Luke’s Legacy, showcasing its enduring impact on the Irish music scene.

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8: The Lonesome Boatman (The Fureys)

Date of Release: 1969

Album: The Lonesome Boatman

Genre: Folk

Producer: Finbar & Eddie Furey

‘The Lonesome Boatman’ is best known for its haunting tin whistle melody, particularly in the title track and the traditional ballad ‘Carnlough Bay.’ This Irish hit song, covered by Dropkick Murphys in their 2017 album 11 Short Stories of Pain & Glory, has become a poignant fixture at Celtic FC football matches, where it is played to honor the team’s Irish heritage and to evoke a sense of unity among the fans.

The wordless tune of ‘The Lonesome Boatman’ creates vivid imagery of mountains and tranquil lakes, stirring memories of past friends and family. Its timeless melody, with its haunting tin whistle, transcends generations, connecting listeners to a deep emotional language that reflects on the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of love and loss, inviting a moment of reflection.

9: Galway Girl (Steve Earle)

Date of Release: 2000

Album: Transcendental Blues

Genre: Folk

Songwriter: Steve Earle

Producer: Jamie Bedford, Ray Kennedy

The Irish song “Galway Girl” is a semi-autobiographical story about a young man who falls for a beautiful, black-haired, blue-eyed girl he meets in Galway, Ireland.

The lyrics of ‘Galway Girl’ beautifully describe the charm and beauty of a girl from Galway, capturing the singer’s affection for her. However, despite its upbeat and catchy tempo, the song has not escaped criticism. Some have pointed out a trend in Irish songs where women are often objectified. This critique invites us to consider the cultural implications of our music, adding a layer of thoughtfulness to the song’s narrative.

In 2008, Irish artist Mundy and the renowned Sharon Shannon collaborated to record a cover of ‘Galway Girl.’ This version not only topped the Irish Singles Chart but also became the most downloaded song in Ireland that year, a testament to the enduring appeal of famous Irish songs.

10: Song for Ireland (Various)

Genre: Folk

Songwriter: Phil Colclough

“Song for Ireland” was written by English songwriter Phil Colclough and his wife June, inspired by a visit to the picturesque Dingle Peninsula in Ireland.

The song tells the story of a young man who leaves Ireland to travel the world but remains haunted by memories of his homeland. The lyrics celebrate Ireland’s natural beauty and musical heritage, evoking a deep longing for home. Many famous Irish musicians, such as The Dubliners, Luke Kelly, and Mary Black, have recorded the song. It has become a staple at Irish events and gatherings worldwide.

‘Song for Ireland’ is one of the famous Irish songs that evokes a deep sense of longing for home. It is often performed at weddings, funerals, and other significant occasions, serving as a poignant reminder of the beauty of Ireland and its enduring connections to one’s homeland.

FAQs

What is the most recognizable Irish song?

“The Fields of Athenry” is the most recognizable song.

What is the oldest known Irish song?

“Dinnseanchas” is the oldest known Irish song.

What is the easiest Irish song to learn?

“The Britches” is the easiest Irish song to learn.

Which Irish songs have become international hits?

Linger, Danny Boy, and Molly Malone are a few of the Irish songs that have become international hits.

What are some popular Irish rebel songs?

Go On Home British Soldiers, Grace, The Boys of the Old Brigade are some popular Irish rebel songs.