Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea Lyrics And Chords By The Irish Rovers

The lyrics and chords fit the Irish Rovers.
There's several songs about the name Kitty here on the site. The Pogues song Kitty is probably the the top song even though it's mostly Pogues fans who know it .

Flute Intro: Em-Em-Bm-Em
Intro: Em-(G-D)-Em-Bm   Em-(G-D)-(Em-Bm)-Em   Em

I’ve (Em)always been a (G)rover (D)and I’ve (Em)never had a (Bm)care
I’ve (Em)courted every (G)lass I’ve (D)met from (Em)Antrim (Bm)down to (Em)Clare
I’ve (G)never felt the (D)pain of love ‘till (Em)cupid came one (C)day
Now (Em)every thought I’ve (G)had is (D)on me (Em)Kitty (Bm)of Kil(Em)rea!

Chorus
(C)I love the (G)rose of Kilrea, and (D)one of these days I’ll (Em)dance her away
She’s (C)stolen my heart, and (G)never I’ll part with (D)Kitty the (Bm)rose of Kil(Em)rea.

Bridge: Em-Am-Em-Em

Her (Em)hair is long and (G)golden (D)and her (Em)eyes are emerald (Bm)green
She’s (Em)well put together from (G)head to (D)toe she’s (Em)every (Bm)young man’s (Em)dream
(G)All of the boys are (D)chasing her and it’s (Em)time I made me (C)play
When (Em)I get bold I (G)will pro(D)pose to (Em)Kitty the (Bm)rose of Kil(Em)rea

Chorus

In (Em)Belfast city I (G)know a (D)lass with (Em)money and with (Bm)class
She (Em)asked if she could (G)marry (D)me but I (Em)know it (Bm)wouldn’t (Em)last
I (G)told her nice and (D)gently that my (Em)heart would never (C)stray
From the (Em)rose of county (G)Derry (D)and my (Em)Kitty (Bm)of Kil(Em)rea

Chorus
Instrumental verse

And (Em)now that we are (G)married (D)we have (Em)children on our (Bm)knee
A (Em)girl just like her (G)mother (D)and a (Em)boy that (Bm)looks like (Em)me
And (G)when I hold her (D)in my arms my (Em)heart still thumps a(C)way
The (Em)king can have his (G)riches, (D)I’ve got (Em)Kitty (Bm)of Kil(Em)rea

Chorus
Chorus starting with ‚Yes’
Repeat Intro

​Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea is a traditional Irish folk song that tells the story of a beautiful young woman named Kitty who lived in the town of Kilrea in County Derry, Northern Ireland. The song has been passed down through generations and has become a beloved part of Irish musical culture. Its timeless melody and poetic lyrics have captured the hearts of many and continue to be sung and cherished even today.

The origins of the song can be traced back to the 19th century when Irish folk music was at its peak. It is believed that the song was first composed by an unknown musician in the village of Kilrea, inspired by the beauty and charm of a local girl named Kitty. As the song spread throughout the country, it became a popular choice at local gatherings and celebrations, with each singer adding their own unique touch to the melody.

The lyrics of the song paint a vivid picture of the idyllic town of Kilrea, with its rolling hills, green fields, and blooming roses. But the true star of the song is Kitty, who is described as the rose of Kilrea, the fairest of them all. Her beauty is compared to the flowers in the valley and her gentle nature is praised by all who know her. The song also touches upon the love and admiration that the narrator has for Kitty, making it a romantic ballad that has stood the test of time.

One of the reasons for the enduring popularity of Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea is its relatability. The song speaks of a simple life in a small town, where the beauty of nature and the love of a special person are enough to bring joy and contentment. It is a reminder of a time when life was less complicated and people found happiness in the little things. The song's sentimental lyrics and nostalgic tone evoke a sense of longing for a simpler past, making it a favorite among those who appreciate traditional Irish music.

Moreover, the song is also a reflection of Irish culture and traditions. The mention of Kilrea, a real town in Northern Ireland, adds an authentic touch to the song. It also showcases the importance of community and the strong bonds that exist in Irish villages. The song's celebration of nature and its connection to the people's way of life is a testament to the deep-rooted love and appreciation for the land and its beauty in Irish culture.

Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea has not only captured the hearts of the Irish but has also gained popularity in other parts of the world. The song has been covered by various artists and has been translated into different languages, spreading its message of love and beauty to a global audience. Its simple yet powerful melody has made it a favorite for many and has been included in numerous Irish music compilations, ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

In conclusion, Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea is more than just a song; it is a piece of Irish heritage that has stood the test of time. Its timeless melody, poetic lyrics, and relatable themes have made it a beloved part of Irish music culture. The song's celebration of love, beauty, and nature has resonated with people across generations, making it a true treasure of Irish folk music. As long as there are people who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and the power of music, Kitty The Rose Of Kilrea will continue to be sung and cherished.