Rifles Of The I.R.A. lyrics and chords
Song Meaning: "Rifles of the I.R.A.""Rifles of the I.R.A." is an Irish rebel song that reflects the history, struggles, and sacrifices of those involved in the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921) and beyond. The song is a tribute to the men and women who fought for Irish independence and is steeped in themes of nationalism, resistance, and the longing for a united Ireland.
Themes and Storyline:
Historical and Cultural Context:
Musical Style:The song is typically performed as a solemn yet powerful ballad, with traditional Irish instrumentation and impassioned vocals. The melody often carries an air of defiance and pride, reflecting the song’s themes of resistance and remembrance.
Controversy:Due to its association with the IRA, the song can be politically sensitive. While it is celebrated by those who view it as a tribute to Ireland’s fight for independence, it can also be seen as divisive, particularly in the context of more recent conflicts in Northern Ireland.
Legacy and Impact:"Rifles of the I.R.A." remains a significant part of Irish rebel music, frequently performed by folk bands and at Irish cultural events. It serves as a reminder of Ireland’s turbulent history and the ongoing cultural and political discussions surrounding Irish unity.
Conclusion:"Rifles of the I.R.A." is a powerful tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of those who fought for Irish independence. Its themes of pride, resistance, and longing for unity continue to resonate with many Irish people, making it an enduring part of the country’s folk music tradition.
Themes and Storyline:
- Tribute to the Irish Republican Army:
The song pays homage to the IRA fighters who played a significant role in the struggle for Irish freedom. The "rifles" in the title symbolize their dedication, sacrifice, and willingness to take up arms for the cause of independence. - Resistance and Defiance:
The lyrics emphasize the determination of Irish nationalists to stand up against British rule. The song reflects a sense of pride in the fight for justice and freedom, portraying the IRA as defenders of Irish sovereignty. - Historical Context:
The song references the War of Independence, a critical period in Irish history when the IRA used guerrilla warfare tactics to fight for self-governance. It also alludes to the ongoing struggle for a united Ireland that persisted long after the war officially ended. - Sacrifice and Loss:
Like many Irish rebel songs, "Rifles of the I.R.A." honors those who lost their lives in the struggle for independence. The song captures the emotional toll of the conflict while celebrating the enduring spirit of those who continued the fight.
Historical and Cultural Context:
- Irish War of Independence: The IRA was formed to oppose British rule and played a pivotal role in securing the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, which led to the establishment of the Irish Free State. However, divisions over the treaty led to the Irish Civil War, and the struggle for a fully united Ireland continued.
- Rebel Music Tradition: Irish rebel songs like "Rifles of the I.R.A." have long been used to preserve the memory of historical struggles and foster a sense of national pride. They are often sung at gatherings and events commemorating Ireland’s fight for independence.
Musical Style:The song is typically performed as a solemn yet powerful ballad, with traditional Irish instrumentation and impassioned vocals. The melody often carries an air of defiance and pride, reflecting the song’s themes of resistance and remembrance.
Controversy:Due to its association with the IRA, the song can be politically sensitive. While it is celebrated by those who view it as a tribute to Ireland’s fight for independence, it can also be seen as divisive, particularly in the context of more recent conflicts in Northern Ireland.
Legacy and Impact:"Rifles of the I.R.A." remains a significant part of Irish rebel music, frequently performed by folk bands and at Irish cultural events. It serves as a reminder of Ireland’s turbulent history and the ongoing cultural and political discussions surrounding Irish unity.
Conclusion:"Rifles of the I.R.A." is a powerful tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of those who fought for Irish independence. Its themes of pride, resistance, and longing for unity continue to resonate with many Irish people, making it an enduring part of the country’s folk music tradition.
Irish rebel song lyrics and guitar chords. Written by Dominic Behan and recorded by The Wolfe Tones along with Eire Og, The Fighting Men From Crossmaglen who recorded many other ballads including The Sniper's Promise [ song lyrics ].
The tin whistle / sheet music is in the rebel songs ebook here .
The tin whistle / sheet music is in the rebel songs ebook here .
In [G] nineteen hundred and sixteen,
The [C] Forces [D] of the [G] Crown,
For to Capture Orange, [Em] White and Green,
Bom[D]barded Dublin [G] Town,
But in twenty one, [Em] Britannia's huns,
Be[D]gan to earn their [G] pay,
When the Black and Tans, Like lightning ran
From the [C] rifles of the [D] IR[G]A
They burned their way through Munster
Laid Leinster on the rack,
Through Connaught and through Ulster,
Marched the men in brown and black,
Well, they cut down wives and children,
In their own heroic way,
The black and tans, like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
They hanged young Kevin Barry high,
A lad of eighteen years,
Cork City`s flames lit up the sky,
But our brave boys new no fear.
The Cork Brigade with hand grenade
In ambush waiting lay,
And the black and tans, like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
The tans were taken out and shot
By a brave and fearless few,
Sean Treacy, Denny, Lacey,
And Tom Barry`s famous crew,
Though we`re not free yet but we won`t forget
Until our dying day
When the black and tans like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
The [C] Forces [D] of the [G] Crown,
For to Capture Orange, [Em] White and Green,
Bom[D]barded Dublin [G] Town,
But in twenty one, [Em] Britannia's huns,
Be[D]gan to earn their [G] pay,
When the Black and Tans, Like lightning ran
From the [C] rifles of the [D] IR[G]A
They burned their way through Munster
Laid Leinster on the rack,
Through Connaught and through Ulster,
Marched the men in brown and black,
Well, they cut down wives and children,
In their own heroic way,
The black and tans, like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
They hanged young Kevin Barry high,
A lad of eighteen years,
Cork City`s flames lit up the sky,
But our brave boys new no fear.
The Cork Brigade with hand grenade
In ambush waiting lay,
And the black and tans, like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
The tans were taken out and shot
By a brave and fearless few,
Sean Treacy, Denny, Lacey,
And Tom Barry`s famous crew,
Though we`re not free yet but we won`t forget
Until our dying day
When the black and tans like lightning ran
From the rifles of the IRA
Here's a version of the song chords in the key of D
In [D] nineteen hundred and sixteen,
The [G] Forces [A] of the [D] Crown,
For to Capture Orange, [Bm] White and Green,
Bom[A]barded Dublin [D] Town,
But in twenty one, [Bm] Britannia's huns,
Be[A]gan to earn their [D] pay,
When the Black and Tans, Like lightning ran
From the [G] rifles of the [A] IR[D]A.
Back to The Wolfe Tones Songs
In [D] nineteen hundred and sixteen,
The [G] Forces [A] of the [D] Crown,
For to Capture Orange, [Bm] White and Green,
Bom[A]barded Dublin [D] Town,
But in twenty one, [Bm] Britannia's huns,
Be[A]gan to earn their [D] pay,
When the Black and Tans, Like lightning ran
From the [G] rifles of the [A] IR[D]A.
Back to The Wolfe Tones Songs
The Wolfe Tones Rifles of the IRA
