Biddy McGrath Song Lyrics Guitar Chords
Song Meaning: "Biddy McGrath""Biddy McGrath" is a traditional Irish folk song that humorously tells the story of a woman named Biddy McGrath, often portrayed as a feisty and memorable character from rural Ireland. Like many folk songs, it reflects themes of local life, love, and community with a touch of wit and exaggeration.
Themes and Meaning:
Musical Style:The song is usually performed in a lively, upbeat tempo, with traditional Irish instrumentation such as fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhráns. Its sing-along quality makes it a popular choice in pubs and at folk music gatherings.
Themes and Meaning:
- Character Sketch:
The song is centered on Biddy McGrath, who is typically described as an assertive, strong-willed, or even mischievous woman. She is often portrayed as larger-than-life, embodying both the charm and eccentricity of Irish rural life. - Humor and Storytelling:
Irish folk songs often use humor to paint vivid portraits of their characters, and Biddy McGrath is no exception. The lyrics might describe Biddy’s adventures, mishaps, or interactions with others in a lighthearted way, making her the subject of local gossip or admiration. - Rural Life:
The song provides a glimpse into life in small-town or rural Ireland, highlighting the quirks and colorful personalities of the community. Songs like this often celebrate the close-knit nature of these communities while poking fun at local characters. - Cultural Nostalgia:
Like many Irish folk songs, "Biddy McGrath" captures a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time, filled with storytelling, local legends, and laughter.
Musical Style:The song is usually performed in a lively, upbeat tempo, with traditional Irish instrumentation such as fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhráns. Its sing-along quality makes it a popular choice in pubs and at folk music gatherings.
Recorded by The Dubliners [ lyrics ] and by Sullivans Gypsies who later changed their name to Ryan's Fancy, as far as I know the song is traditional and variations of the song can be found in many countries including Scotland and Canada, the version here is the Dublin version that takes place in Ringsend. The term ''Traditional'' has being placed on many songs on this site, what's really meant by the label ''Traditional'' in the music scene is that the song writer is unknown or that the song is out of copyright or never was copyrighted in the first place. On most folk albums you will also see in the credits the term trad/arr. which mean the song is traditional and the particular arrangement is by that singer/band. Tommy Flanagan is said to have written this song to the tune of Mrs. McGrath, Tommy says he wrote in down the back of Breens record shop and sang it for the first time at a Fleadh Cheoil in Thurles. Tommy was a comedian around Dublin in the 60's who also starred in The Italian Job.
Other songs about Ringsend In Dublin is Ringsend Rose By Brendan Grace .
Other songs about Ringsend In Dublin is Ringsend Rose By Brendan Grace .
Biddy McGrath is a traditional Irish song that has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time. The song tells the story of a young woman named Biddy McGrath who is seeking love and marriage, but is met with rejection and heartbreak. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, and the melody is hauntingly beautiful. This song has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved part of Irish culture.
History and Origin
The origins of the Biddy McGrath song are unclear, as it has been passed down through oral tradition. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century in Ireland, with variations of the song being found in different regions. Some versions of the song mention specific locations in Ireland, such as County Antrim and County Clare, further adding to the mystery and charm of the song.
Themes and Lyrics
The lyrics of Biddy McGrath are simple yet poignant, and they tell the story of a young woman's search for love and acceptance. The first verse introduces Biddy and her desire for a husband, singing 'Biddy McGrath, she's a nice little girl / She's as fair as a lily and as sweet as an apple / Her eyes like the diamond, they shine in the night / And the youth of the village are all in delight.'
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that Biddy's search for love is not an easy one. She is constantly met with rejection and heartache, as seen in the lyrics 'But all the fine fellows they're passing her by / And she's left with no one to love her or sigh / She'll sit in her cabin and pine all alone / And her tears they will fall like the dew on the stone.'
The song also touches on the societal pressures and expectations placed on women to find a husband, as Biddy's mother urges her to 'marry a man with a fortune in store.' This reflects the traditional values and beliefs of Irish society at the time, where marriage and financial stability were highly valued.
The final verse of the song reveals the tragic ending to Biddy's story, as she ultimately dies alone and unloved. The lyrics 'But now she's laid low in the cold churchyard / And the green grass is growing up over her heart / She's gone to her rest, and her troubles are o'er / And the green grass is growing up over her grave' evoke a sense of sadness and loss, and truly capture the essence of the song.
Musicality and Influences
The melody of Biddy McGrath is hauntingly beautiful, with a slow and melancholic tone that perfectly complements the lyrics. It is often performed in a slow 3/4 time signature, adding to the mournful and somber feeling of the song. The simplicity of the melody allows for the focus to be on the lyrics and the story being told.
As with many traditional songs, the melody of Biddy McGrath has been adapted and changed over time, with different versions featuring variations in the tune and lyrics. Some versions also feature additional verses, further adding to the fluidity and evolution of the song.
Impact and Legacy
Biddy McGrath may be a simple and traditional Irish song, but its impact and legacy are far-reaching. It has been recorded and performed by numerous artists, both in Ireland and internationally, and continues to be a beloved part of Irish music and culture. Its timeless tale of love, rejection, and loss resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it a true testament to the enduring power of traditional songs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Biddy McGrath is a song that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences with its powerful lyrics and haunting melody. Its origins may be unknown, but its impact and legacy are undeniable. This song is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of traditional Irish music, and it will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
History and Origin
The origins of the Biddy McGrath song are unclear, as it has been passed down through oral tradition. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century in Ireland, with variations of the song being found in different regions. Some versions of the song mention specific locations in Ireland, such as County Antrim and County Clare, further adding to the mystery and charm of the song.
Themes and Lyrics
The lyrics of Biddy McGrath are simple yet poignant, and they tell the story of a young woman's search for love and acceptance. The first verse introduces Biddy and her desire for a husband, singing 'Biddy McGrath, she's a nice little girl / She's as fair as a lily and as sweet as an apple / Her eyes like the diamond, they shine in the night / And the youth of the village are all in delight.'
As the song progresses, it becomes clear that Biddy's search for love is not an easy one. She is constantly met with rejection and heartache, as seen in the lyrics 'But all the fine fellows they're passing her by / And she's left with no one to love her or sigh / She'll sit in her cabin and pine all alone / And her tears they will fall like the dew on the stone.'
The song also touches on the societal pressures and expectations placed on women to find a husband, as Biddy's mother urges her to 'marry a man with a fortune in store.' This reflects the traditional values and beliefs of Irish society at the time, where marriage and financial stability were highly valued.
The final verse of the song reveals the tragic ending to Biddy's story, as she ultimately dies alone and unloved. The lyrics 'But now she's laid low in the cold churchyard / And the green grass is growing up over her heart / She's gone to her rest, and her troubles are o'er / And the green grass is growing up over her grave' evoke a sense of sadness and loss, and truly capture the essence of the song.
Musicality and Influences
The melody of Biddy McGrath is hauntingly beautiful, with a slow and melancholic tone that perfectly complements the lyrics. It is often performed in a slow 3/4 time signature, adding to the mournful and somber feeling of the song. The simplicity of the melody allows for the focus to be on the lyrics and the story being told.
As with many traditional songs, the melody of Biddy McGrath has been adapted and changed over time, with different versions featuring variations in the tune and lyrics. Some versions also feature additional verses, further adding to the fluidity and evolution of the song.
Impact and Legacy
Biddy McGrath may be a simple and traditional Irish song, but its impact and legacy are far-reaching. It has been recorded and performed by numerous artists, both in Ireland and internationally, and continues to be a beloved part of Irish music and culture. Its timeless tale of love, rejection, and loss resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it a true testament to the enduring power of traditional songs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Biddy McGrath is a song that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences with its powerful lyrics and haunting melody. Its origins may be unknown, but its impact and legacy are undeniable. This song is a testament to the enduring power and beauty of traditional Irish music, and it will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
[G]Now I'll tell you a [C]story that is [G]bound to [D]shock
It's [G]all about a murder on the Rings-end [D]Dock.
The [G]woman in [C]question [G]Biddy Mac [D]Grath
who [G]strangled two sailors with the straps of her [D]bra
[G]with me [C]toor-i-aa, [G]fol-the-did-dle-ahh.
[C]Toor-i-oor-i-[D]toor-i-[G]aah.
They tried to dope her with foreign liquor
But even at that they couldn't lick her
She remembered she was told by her Ma and Da
To keep both of her hands on the straps of her bra.
She put the straps of her bra around the big fella's neck
And tossed him in the Liffy like a crust of bread
Then the small fella came up and said 'Hee-Haw'
So she stuffed his gob with the rest of her bra.
[G]She went home that night about a quarter to one
Happy and contented with a job well done
She told the story to her Ma and her Da
They said 'Thank God that you wore your bra.'
Chorus;Verse
Biddy had to go to Court the very next day
To face the charges that came he way;
Said the judge "I find you guilty Miss Biddy McGrath
Your to hang from the gallows by the straps of your Bra".
Now come all you young girls who like a sailor by night
Never wear the straps of your bra too tight
Remember the story of Biddy Mac Grath
-Keep both of your hands on the straps of your bra.
It's [G]all about a murder on the Rings-end [D]Dock.
The [G]woman in [C]question [G]Biddy Mac [D]Grath
who [G]strangled two sailors with the straps of her [D]bra
[G]with me [C]toor-i-aa, [G]fol-the-did-dle-ahh.
[C]Toor-i-oor-i-[D]toor-i-[G]aah.
They tried to dope her with foreign liquor
But even at that they couldn't lick her
She remembered she was told by her Ma and Da
To keep both of her hands on the straps of her bra.
She put the straps of her bra around the big fella's neck
And tossed him in the Liffy like a crust of bread
Then the small fella came up and said 'Hee-Haw'
So she stuffed his gob with the rest of her bra.
[G]She went home that night about a quarter to one
Happy and contented with a job well done
She told the story to her Ma and her Da
They said 'Thank God that you wore your bra.'
Chorus;Verse
Biddy had to go to Court the very next day
To face the charges that came he way;
Said the judge "I find you guilty Miss Biddy McGrath
Your to hang from the gallows by the straps of your Bra".
Now come all you young girls who like a sailor by night
Never wear the straps of your bra too tight
Remember the story of Biddy Mac Grath
-Keep both of your hands on the straps of your bra.
