Billy Reid Tin Whistle And Banjo Music

Written by Brian Lyons.  The piano sheet music score / tab letter notes for the flute and recorder are included. [ An Irish Republican song ]The song words are also on the site Billy Reid Lyrics And Chords

Song Meaning.
"Billy Reid" is a powerful Irish rebel song that tells the story of Billy Reid, an Irish Republican Army (IRA) volunteer who was killed during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The song is both a tribute to Reid’s sacrifice and a broader expression of Irish nationalism and resistance. Here's a breakdown of the song's themes and meaning:
1. Historical Context

• Billy Reid was a real-life figure and a member of the IRA. He was killed on May 15, 1971, during a gun battle with British soldiers in Belfast. His death became a symbol of the conflict and the sacrifices made by those involved in the Irish nationalist struggle during the Troubles.
  
• Reid's actions and death were commemorated by many in the Republican movement, and the song reflects the emotions and tensions surrounding that time.
  

2. Heroism and Martyrdom

• The song portrays Billy Reid as a heroic figure who fought for freedom and justice. His death is depicted as a noble sacrifice for the cause of Irish nationalism. Like many Irish rebel songs, "Billy Reid" emphasizes themes of martyrdom—paying tribute to those who gave their lives for what they believed to be the liberation of Ireland.

3. Resistance Against Oppression

• The song reflects the broader narrative of Irish resistance to British rule. It highlights the belief that individuals like Billy Reid were fighting against occupation and oppression, a central theme in many Irish rebel songs.

4. Emotional and Political Impact

• The lyrics often convey a mixture of grief, pride, and defiance. While the song mourns Billy Reid’s death, it also serves as a rallying cry for continued resistance and unity in the face of adversity. It captures the emotional toll of the conflict while celebrating the determination of those who fought.

5. Legacy in Irish Music

• "Billy Reid" is often performed by groups such as The Wolfe Tones, who are known for their repertoire of Irish rebel songs. These performances contribute to the song’s enduring popularity, particularly among those sympathetic to the Republican cause.

6. Controversial Nature

• Like many rebel songs, "Billy Reid" can be polarizing due to its connection to the Troubles and the IRA. For some, it’s a powerful tribute to those who fought for Irish freedom; for others, it may evoke painful memories of violence and division.

Summary"Billy Reid" is a poignant Irish rebel song that commemorates the life and sacrifice of Billy Reid, portraying him as a hero of the Irish nationalist cause. Through themes of martyrdom, resistance, and remembrance, the song captures the spirit of a turbulent time in Irish history and remains a significant part of Irish folk and rebel music tradition.

Billy Reid sheet music for tin whistle

Here's the letter notes for the music above. The high notes are the lower case letters.

GABBAGGGAGEG  GABBBBAGA
GABBAGGGAGEG  GABBABAG
ABccccBBBAGA  GABBBddBA
dcBBAGGGAGEG  GABBBABAG

Billy Reid Irish Tenor Banjo Tab

The above youtube version is by Jean-Baptiste Meynard. His first version is on the C Whistle and the second version on a D. The video is slightly different than the notes I have above the video. There's not much in the difference though. Play it your own way. These videos are here to help you learn the melody on the whistle.
 
Billy Reid :
E F# F# F# E D E D B D E F# F# F# E D E E F# E D D E D B D E F# F# E D E D
Chorus : E F# G A G F# E D E F# G E D E E F# E D D E D B D E F# F# E D E D