"Song for Ireland" was written by Phil Colclough, a Northern Irish singer-songwriter, and first recorded in 1977. It is a classic in the Irish music scene, and it is a way of remembering those who left Ireland and the memories they left behind. "Song for Ireland" tells the story of a young man who leaves his home in Ireland to travel the world but finds that no matter where he goes, he cannot escape the memories of the land and people he left behind.
The lyrics describe the beauty and charm of Ireland, and the singer's longing to return home. The song's emotive and melodic tone makes it a favorite among audiences of all ages. Since its release, "Song for Ireland" has been covered by many artists, including the Irish folk group The Dubliners, and became a classic in the Irish music scene.
The song has become a staple in Irish events and gatherings around the world and is often performed at weddings and funerals. Sign up to IrishCentral's newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything Irish! The song has also become a symbol of Irish emigration and the longing for home, it is often used as a way of remembering those who left Ireland in search of a better life and the memories they left behind. "Song for Ireland" is a beloved Irish ballad that has stood the test of time.
Its emotive tone and relatable lyrics have made it a favorite among audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The song continues to be a beloved part of Irish culture and a reminder of the beauty of Ireland and the longing for home. It is a classic in the Irish music scene and it is a way of remembering those who left Ireland and the memories they left behind.
Walking all the day, near tall towers Where falcons build their nests Silver winged they fly They know the call of freedom in their breasts Saw Black Head against the sky Where twisted rocks they run down to the sea Living on your western shore Saw summer sunsets, asked for more I stood by your Atlantic sea And sang a song for Ireland. Drinking all the day in old pubs Where fiddlers love to play Someone touched the bow He played a reel It seemed so fine and gay Stood on Dingle beach And cast in wild foam we found Atlantic bass Living on your western shore Saw summer sunsets asked for more I stood by your Atlantic sea And sang a song for Ireland Talking all the day with true friends Who try to make you stay Telling jokes and news Singing songs to pass the night away Watched the Galway salmon run Like silver dancing darting in the sun Living on your western shore Saw summer sunsets, asked for more I stood by your Atlantic sea And sang a song for Ireland. Dreaming in the night I saw a land Where no man had to fight Waking in your dawn I saw you crying in the morning light Lying where the falcons fly They twist and turn all in you'er blue sky Living on your western shore, Saw summer sunsets asked for more I stood by your Atlantic sea And sang a song for Ireland.
* Originally published in Jan 2023, updated in 2024..
