Molly Brannigan is the story of a man who loses not only his heart, but his britches as well, in unrequited love. The third verse is usually left out by singers, yet to me is both the funniest and the most poignant. There's a version by the inimitable John McCormack here. MOLLY BRANNIGAN 1. … Continue reading MOLLY BRANNIGAN: An Irish Song
John McCormack
THE FOGGY DEW: Traditional Irish Song Lyrics
This is the traditional version of The Foggy Dew, which pre-dates the revolutionary song by at least a century. It was not uncommon for Irish folksingers and songwriters to borrow older tunes for new songs. A version of this ballad was recorded by the great John McCormack in 1913, and can be heard here. THE … Continue reading THE FOGGY DEW: Traditional Irish Song Lyrics
MOLLY BAWN: An Irish Song
This is a traditional Irish song which I first learned as a child, listening to my grandmother's recordings of the great Irish tenor, John McCormack (find his version here). In the Donovan Family Saga, John Patrick Donovan sings it to his wife, Molly. Molly Bawn Refrain Oh, Molly bawn, why leave me pining All lonesome … Continue reading MOLLY BAWN: An Irish Song
Gifford MacShane, Author 