Unraveling the Folk Song’s Mysterious Origins
The Wild Rover, a beloved folk song known for its catchy tune and timeless lyrics, has been the subject of debate and speculation for centuries. Its origins have been shrouded in mystery with questions surrounding its true nationality. Is it Irish, English or something else entirely? Let’s delve into the history of this iconic song to uncover the truth.
Before we do, let’s listen to this “uncut”version of the song, which shows why its so popular, anyone can sing it…
A Seventeenth-Century English Broadside
In 2015 Brian Peters published a groundbreaking claim in the “Folk Music Journal” (Volume 10) that the song’s origins can be traced back to a seventeenth-century English Broadside written by Thomas Lanfiere. This revelation challenges the popular belief that The Wild Rover is an inherently Irish creation. Instead it suggests English roots for the song.
Diverse Variations Across Borders
Over time The Wild Rover evolved into several distinct versions not only in England but also in Scotland, Ireland and North America. Its adaptability and appeal transcended national boundaries making it a global folk classic.
A Tempting Temperance Tune?
Professor T. M. Devine’s book “The Scottish Nation 1700 – 2000” suggests an intriguing twist to the song’s history. He proposes that it was originally crafted as a temperance song promoting abstinence from alcohol. This connection to temperance adds complexity to the song’s identity.
Transatlantic Journey
The Wild Rover’s journey across the Atlantic is well-documented. It can be found in “The American Songster” printed in the United States by W. A. Leary in 1845. This connection with the temperance movement suggests that the song may have spread from Scotland to America through these shared values.
A Bodleian Library Mystery
An alternative history of the song is hinted at by a collection of ballads dating between 1813 and 1838 housed in the Bodleian Library. This bundle featuring “The Wild Rover” challenges the conventional narrative and raises questions about its early origins.
A Worldwide Phenomenon
The Wild Rover is indexed as number 1173 in the Roud Folk Song Index with approximately 200 versions listed. These versions span broadsides, chapbooks and song collections. Traditional singers have preserved around 50 renditions including 26 from England 12 from Scotland 3 from Ireland 5 from Australia 4 from Canada and 2 from the United States.
A Universally Recognizable Chorus
Despite its ambiguous origins The Wild Rover’s chorus has become universally recognized and beloved. Fans of the Celtic Football Club in Scotland sing it at away matches demonstrating its enduring appeal. The chorus has transcended cultural boundaries resonating with Irish Irish-American and British audiences even among those unfamiliar with the rest of the song.
From Football Chants to Margarine Ads
The song’s influence extends beyond folk circles. Football fans in England, especially those of Blackburn and Burnley Football Clubs have adapted its chorus to support their teams. Moreover various companies have capitalized on the song’s popularity by using it in advertising campaigns. For example Dairy Crest used the tune to promote their Clover margarine in the UK sung by Mae McKenna. The song has seen countless recordings with some versions even becoming hit singles like the one released by the Irish punk band Stiff Little Fingers which reached number 83 in 1989.
The Wild Rover’s nationality remains a matter of debate with evidence pointing to its English origins, Scottish influence and its widespread appeal beyond borders. Regardless of its true beginnings the song’s enduring popularity proves that its charm knows no boundaries making it a cherished piece of folk music history that continues to captivate audiences around the world
And we love it..
So do our members – It was voted one of the most popular folk songs in Ireland in our recent poll…
Reference: Wikipedia: –
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