Barrett's Privateers Lyrics Guitar Chords
"Barrett's Privateers" is a well-known sea shanty-style folk song written by Stan Rogers, a Canadian folk musician, in 1976. Despite its modern origins, the song is performed in a traditional style and has become a staple of maritime folk music. It tells a fictional story of a young sailor’s misadventures on a doomed privateering expedition during the American Revolutionary War.
Song Meaning and Themes
Musical Style
Legacy
Song Meaning and Themes
- Disillusionment and Betrayal:
The song’s narrator begins with youthful enthusiasm, joining Captain Barrett’s privateering crew in search of glory and wealth. However, the expedition quickly turns disastrous, leading to injuries, suffering, and disillusionment. This theme of shattered expectations is central to the song. - Historical Context:
Privateers were state-sanctioned pirates who attacked enemy merchant ships for profit during wars. While privateering was often glorified, the song exposes its darker side, showing how men were often exploited, poorly equipped, and sent on hopeless missions. - Futility of War:
The narrator’s fate—injured and left with nothing—reflects the pointlessness of war and violence, a theme Stan Rogers explored in many of his songs. The song offers a grim, sardonic take on how young men are drawn into conflicts for promises of glory that rarely materialize. - Nostalgia and Regret:
The song is structured as a bitter reflection from the perspective of an older, crippled sailor, looking back on his life with regret. This perspective adds a layer of melancholy and depth to the song’s storytelling.
Musical Style
- The song is performed with a rousing, sea shanty-like melody, making it a popular singalong in pubs and maritime festivals.
- Its simple, repetitive structure and chorus make it easy for groups to join in, which has helped its enduring popularity.
Legacy
- "Barrett’s Privateers" has become an iconic anthem of Canadian maritime music, often sung at folk festivals and pubs.
- It’s widely recognized for its vivid storytelling and ability to evoke the hardships of life at sea during the privateering era.
The sheet music, Ukulele chords and tin whistle sheet music notes are included.Folk Song. Stan Rogers guitar version, other Stan Rogers songs here include The Mary Ellen Carter Song . This ballad was also recorded by The Corries, the guitar chords [ which are suitable for playing on the mandolin ]The music time signature is 2/2 and the guitar chords are in chordpro. for this version are by Marc Fahrbach. Although the characters in the song are made up, it details what pirates got up to in the sixteenth century, first released in 1976 and written by Stan Rogers.
Oh, the (C)year was seventeen (G)seventy-(C)eight
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
A (C)letter of (G)marque came (C)from the king
To the scummiest vessel I'd (G)ever (F)seen
Chorus (Repeat after each verse)
(G)God (C)damn them all, I was (F)told,
We'd (C)cruise the (F)seas for A(C)merican (F)gold
We'd (G)fire no (C)guns, (G)shed no (F)tears
I'm a (C)broken (F)man on a (C)Halifax (F)pier
The last of Barrett's (G)Priva(C)teers
Note: the first G-chord of the chorus is not used
in the Corries-Version
Oh, (C)Elcid Barrett (G)cried the (C)town
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
For (C)twenty brave (G)men, all (C)fishermen, who
Would make for him the (G)Antelope's (F)crew
Oh, the (C)Antelope sloop was a (G)sickening (C)sight
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
She'd a (C)list to the (G)port and her (C)sails in rags
And the cook in the scuppers with the (G)staggers and (F)jags
On the (C)King's birthday we (G)put to (C)sea
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
We were (C)ninety-one (G)days to Mon(C)tego Bay
Pumping like madmen (G)all the (F)way
On the (C)ninety-sixth day we (G)sailed a(C)gain
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
When a (C)bloody great (G)Yankee (C)hove in sight
With our cracked four-pounders, we (G)made to (F)fight
The (C)Yankee lay low (G)down with (C)gold
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
She was (C)broad and (G)fat and (C)loose in stays
But to catch her took the Antelope (G)two whole (F)days
Then at (C)length we stood two (G)cables a(C)way
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
Our (C)cracked four-(G)pounders made an (C)awful din
But with one fat ball the Yank (G)stove us (F)in
The (C)Antelope shook and (G)pitched on her (C)side
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
(C)Barrett was (G)smashed like a (C)bowl of eggs
And the main-truck carried off (G)both me (F)legs
So here I (C)lay in my (G)twenty-third (C)year
How I wish I (F)was in (C)Sherbrooke (G)now
It's been (C)six years (G)since we (C)sailed a-way
And I just made Halifax (G)yester(F)day
Chorus
Final Chorus (Corries’ Version):
God damn them all, I was (F)told,
We'd (C)cruise the (F)seas for A(C)merican (F)gold
We'd (G)fire no (C)guns, (G)shed no (F)tears
Now I'm a (C)broken (F)man on a (C)Halifax (F)pier
(C)Sailed the (F)seas for many a (C)long (F)year
You’ll (C)never find a (F)better man (C)far or (F)near
I’m the last of Barrett's (G)Priva(C)teers
Stan Rogers barretts privateers song lyrics
Barrett’s Privateers is a song that has captured the hearts and minds of many listeners since its release in 1976. Written and performed by the Canadian folk singer Stan Rogers, this song tells the story of a group of privateers during the American Revolutionary War. While the song itself is a masterpiece in its own right, it also serves as a reflection of the time period in which it was written, as well as an exploration of themes such as patriotism, war, and the human experience.
At its core, Barrett’s Privateers is a story of struggle and survival. The song follows the journey of a young sailor, the narrator, who is pressed into service on a privateer ship named the Antelope. The crew of the Antelope, led by the infamous Captain Barrett, are tasked with capturing American ships for the British during the Revolutionary War. However, as the song progresses, the narrator’s perspective shifts from that of a naive sailor to that of a disillusioned and weary survivor. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and emotive language, which allows the listener to journey alongside the narrator and experience the harsh realities of war.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Barrett’s Privateers is its historical accuracy. The song is based on real events and characters, with Captain Barrett and the Antelope being based on a real privateer ship and its captain, William Barret. This attention to detail adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it more than just a piece of entertainment, but also a historical record. Through the song, Rogers highlights the often overlooked role of privateers in the Revolutionary War and sheds light on their experiences and struggles.
However, beyond the historical accuracy, Barrett’s Privateers also serves as a commentary on war and its effects on individuals. The narrator’s journey from eager sailor to disillusioned survivor is a powerful reflection of the toll that war takes on those involved. Through lines such as “I wish I was in Sherbrooke now,” the narrator expresses a longing for the simple life he had before being pressed into service. The song also touches upon themes of loyalty and patriotism, as the narrator grapples with his duty to his country and his own moral compass. These themes are universal and resonate with listeners, regardless of their own experiences with war.
Moreover, Barrett’s Privateers also serves as a reflection of the time period in which it was written. The 1970s were a time of political turmoil and social change, and this is reflected in the song. Rogers wrote the song during the height of the Vietnam War, and it is clear that his experiences and observations of war influenced the lyrics. The anti-war sentiment and questioning of authority in the song are echoes of the sentiments of many during this time. The song continues to be relevant today, as it speaks to the universal impact of war and the struggles faced by those caught in its midst.
In addition to its lyrical and thematic depth, Barrett’s Privateers is also a musical masterpiece. The song is written in the style of traditional sea shanties, with a catchy melody and a chorus that is easy to sing along to. Rogers’ soulful voice and skillful guitar playing add another layer of emotion to the song, making it a truly captivating experience for the listener. It is no wonder that the song has become a staple in the Canadian folk music scene and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
In conclusion, Barrett’s Privateers is more than just a song – it is a reflection of history, a commentary on war and its effects, and a timeless piece of music. Through its powerful storytelling, historical accuracy, and universal themes, the song continues to captivate and move listeners over 40 years since its release. As long as there are wars and struggles, the lyrics of Barrett’s Privateers will continue to ring true and resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic in the Canadian folk music canon.
At its core, Barrett’s Privateers is a story of struggle and survival. The song follows the journey of a young sailor, the narrator, who is pressed into service on a privateer ship named the Antelope. The crew of the Antelope, led by the infamous Captain Barrett, are tasked with capturing American ships for the British during the Revolutionary War. However, as the song progresses, the narrator’s perspective shifts from that of a naive sailor to that of a disillusioned and weary survivor. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and emotive language, which allows the listener to journey alongside the narrator and experience the harsh realities of war.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Barrett’s Privateers is its historical accuracy. The song is based on real events and characters, with Captain Barrett and the Antelope being based on a real privateer ship and its captain, William Barret. This attention to detail adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it more than just a piece of entertainment, but also a historical record. Through the song, Rogers highlights the often overlooked role of privateers in the Revolutionary War and sheds light on their experiences and struggles.
However, beyond the historical accuracy, Barrett’s Privateers also serves as a commentary on war and its effects on individuals. The narrator’s journey from eager sailor to disillusioned survivor is a powerful reflection of the toll that war takes on those involved. Through lines such as “I wish I was in Sherbrooke now,” the narrator expresses a longing for the simple life he had before being pressed into service. The song also touches upon themes of loyalty and patriotism, as the narrator grapples with his duty to his country and his own moral compass. These themes are universal and resonate with listeners, regardless of their own experiences with war.
Moreover, Barrett’s Privateers also serves as a reflection of the time period in which it was written. The 1970s were a time of political turmoil and social change, and this is reflected in the song. Rogers wrote the song during the height of the Vietnam War, and it is clear that his experiences and observations of war influenced the lyrics. The anti-war sentiment and questioning of authority in the song are echoes of the sentiments of many during this time. The song continues to be relevant today, as it speaks to the universal impact of war and the struggles faced by those caught in its midst.
In addition to its lyrical and thematic depth, Barrett’s Privateers is also a musical masterpiece. The song is written in the style of traditional sea shanties, with a catchy melody and a chorus that is easy to sing along to. Rogers’ soulful voice and skillful guitar playing add another layer of emotion to the song, making it a truly captivating experience for the listener. It is no wonder that the song has become a staple in the Canadian folk music scene and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
In conclusion, Barrett’s Privateers is more than just a song – it is a reflection of history, a commentary on war and its effects, and a timeless piece of music. Through its powerful storytelling, historical accuracy, and universal themes, the song continues to captivate and move listeners over 40 years since its release. As long as there are wars and struggles, the lyrics of Barrett’s Privateers will continue to ring true and resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic in the Canadian folk music canon.
Barrett's Privateers Uku chords in C Major
Barrett's privateers lyrics
Barrett's Privateers Sheet Music Notes For Tin Whistle-Key Of D Major
Barretts Privateers song sheet music / tin whistle notes
Easy chords for the key of G Major.
Oh, the (G)year was seventeen (D)seventy-(G)eight
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
A (G)letter of (D)marque came (G)from the king
To the scummiest vessel I'd (D)ever (C)seen
Chorus Repeat after each verse
(D)God (G)damn them all, I was (C)told,
We'd (G)cruise the (C)seas for A(G)merican (C)gold
We'd (D)fire no (G)guns, (D)shed no (C)tears
I'm a (G)broken (C)man on a (G)Halifax (C)pier
The last of Barrett's (D)Priva(G)teers
Note: the first G-chord of the chorus is not used
in the Corries-Version
Oh, (G)Elcid Barrett (D)cried the (G)town
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
For (G)twenty brave (D)men, all (G)fishermen, who
Would make for him the (D)Antelope's (C)crew
Oh, the (G)Antelope sloop was a (D)sickening (G)sight
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
She'd a (G)list to the (D)port and her (G)sails in rags
And the cook in the scuppers with the (D)staggers and (C)jags
On the (G)King's birthday we (D)put to (G)sea
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
We were (G)ninety-one (D)days to Mon(G)tego Bay
Pumping like madmen (D)all the (C)way
On the (G)ninety-sixth day we (D)sailed a(G)gain
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
When a (G)bloody great (D)Yankee (G)hove in sight
With our cracked four-pounders, we (D)made to (C)fight
The (G)Yankee lay low (D)down with (G)gold
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
She was (G)broad and (D)fat and (G)loose in stays
But to catch her took the Antelope (D)two whole (C)days
Then at (G)length we stood two (D)cables a(G)way
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
Our (G)cracked four-(D)pounders made an (G)awful din
But with one fat ball the Yank (D)stove us (C)in
The (G)Antelope shook and (D)pitched on her (G)side
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
(G)Barrett was (D)smashed like a (G)bowl of eggs
And the main-truck carried off (D)both me (C)legs
So here I (G)lay in my (D)twenty-third (G)year
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
It's been (G)six years (D)since we (G)sailed a-way
And I just made Halifax (D)yester(C)day
Oh, the (G)year was seventeen (D)seventy-(G)eight
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
A (G)letter of (D)marque came (G)from the king
To the scummiest vessel I'd (D)ever (C)seen
Chorus Repeat after each verse
(D)God (G)damn them all, I was (C)told,
We'd (G)cruise the (C)seas for A(G)merican (C)gold
We'd (D)fire no (G)guns, (D)shed no (C)tears
I'm a (G)broken (C)man on a (G)Halifax (C)pier
The last of Barrett's (D)Priva(G)teers
Note: the first G-chord of the chorus is not used
in the Corries-Version
Oh, (G)Elcid Barrett (D)cried the (G)town
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
For (G)twenty brave (D)men, all (G)fishermen, who
Would make for him the (D)Antelope's (C)crew
Oh, the (G)Antelope sloop was a (D)sickening (G)sight
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
She'd a (G)list to the (D)port and her (G)sails in rags
And the cook in the scuppers with the (D)staggers and (C)jags
On the (G)King's birthday we (D)put to (G)sea
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
We were (G)ninety-one (D)days to Mon(G)tego Bay
Pumping like madmen (D)all the (C)way
On the (G)ninety-sixth day we (D)sailed a(G)gain
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
When a (G)bloody great (D)Yankee (G)hove in sight
With our cracked four-pounders, we (D)made to (C)fight
The (G)Yankee lay low (D)down with (G)gold
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
She was (G)broad and (D)fat and (G)loose in stays
But to catch her took the Antelope (D)two whole (C)days
Then at (G)length we stood two (D)cables a(G)way
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
Our (G)cracked four-(D)pounders made an (G)awful din
But with one fat ball the Yank (D)stove us (C)in
The (G)Antelope shook and (D)pitched on her (G)side
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
(G)Barrett was (D)smashed like a (G)bowl of eggs
And the main-truck carried off (D)both me (C)legs
So here I (G)lay in my (D)twenty-third (G)year
How I wish I (C)was in (G)Sherbrooke (D)now
It's been (G)six years (D)since we (G)sailed a-way
And I just made Halifax (D)yester(C)day
Below is the ebook list of Irish Folk Songs with guitar chords
in 3 keys. Price €8.90 and I'll email the ebook after purchase .
The chords are suited to ukulele, banjo or mandolin also.
Martin
in 3 keys. Price €8.90 and I'll email the ebook after purchase .
The chords are suited to ukulele, banjo or mandolin also.
Martin
