If you’re Irish then you know the ballad “Danny Boy”. If not, then chances are you’ve heard it and just didn’t know it was called that.
The songs sounds ancient and traditional, as if played in the courts of castles back in the day, but the lyrics were actually written in 1910 by an English lawyer named Frederic Weatherly.
Weatherly’s Irish-born sister-in-law was the one who sent him the tune for ‘Londonderry Air’. Weatherly was intrigued and, captured by the haunting melody, tweaked his composition and set them to the music.
As for the origins of ‘Londonderry Air’, the most popular one goes that in 1851, a woman called Jane Ross heard some guy, an unnamed fiddler, playing it in Limavady, Ireland.
Ross asked the fiddler if she could transcribe the music for her friend raiding in Dublin.
The aim was to preserve the ancient music of Ireland, and so the fiddler agreed.
“Danny Boy” can be heard anywhere in the world, often used in funerals and memorial services.
There have been many renditions and the latest one to come out is from Celtic Woman.
It comes from their album and DVD aptly named “Postcards From Ireland”.
Current members are Tara McNeill, Megan Walsh, Miurgen O’Mahony, and Chloe Agnew. The group formed originally in 2005, establishing their presence as a global phenomenon.
Their website gives a little insight into the group’s history.
“An accomplished recording ensemble and a world-class performing collective, Celtic Woman celebrates Ireland’s rich musical and cultural heritage, while continuing its remarkable 16-year legacy of introducing some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians onto the world stage.”
And yes, the Irish in them shines forth.
“Celtic Woman’s fresh fusion of traditional Irish music and contemporary songcraft celebrates Ireland’s history while reflecting the vibrant spirit of modern Ireland. The group’s repertoire encompasses Irish classics, contemporary songs, classical favorites and stirring originals. The lineup of performers has evolved in the years since the group’s inception, but the signature sound of Celtic Woman has remained consistent, showcasing the members’ individual and collaborative talents.”
Their video for “Danny Boy” is, as expected, very Irish.
From the location to the dresses, Celtic Woman find themselves on a mountain, in the fields among the meadows, overlooking valleys and a lake as they sing with that trademark harmony the group is known for.
The song’s interpretation varies depending on the listener.
But one thing is certain though. It speaks of departure, loss, or even death. And if the singing is as charming and melodious as this, listeners find themselves traveling in their thoughts.
Perhaps to the past to visit a memory or a person.
Sing along with your favorite version of the song, or better yet, put this one on repeat and let Celtic Woman serenade you as they take you away from this world for a few minutes.
Because really, emotions and memories have a way of reminding us of our mortality. That we should all cherish the present with who we’re with and what we have.
Close your eyes and listen to Celtic Woman below!
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