Smith Of Bristol The Dubliners lyrics and chords
A traditional English folk song, the guitar chords by Marc Fahrbach Ronnie Drew was on vocals. To play along with The Dubliners version of the song use the guitar chords given in the key of D Major.
[D]Smith was a Bristol man and a rare old sort was he
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
With a noble crew of cut-throats he used to scour the sea
A'[G]plundering and a'[A]robbing high and [D]low
He [A]swore 'twas no concern, he did not give a herrin'
About right or wrong or any holy [D]show
He swore that grabbing [G]booty was [D]Britain's foremost [G]duty
Wher[D]ever she could [A]get it, heave-ye-[D]ho
Chorus
Heave-ye-[A]ho, heave-ye-[D]ho
He swore that grabbing [G]booty was [D]Britain's foremost [G]duty
Wher[D]ever she could [A]get it, heave-ye-[D]ho
For [D]Smith had a noble soul and lofty was his pride
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
He'd watch his beaten foe-men jump out into the tide
Call you [G]beggars who had [A]nowhere else to [D]go
And [A]hanging from his lanyards were Portuguese and Spaniards
And beaten Frenchmen jumping to and [D]fro
Right along the blazing [G]story shown [D]allure in England's [G]glory
[D]Pirate Smith of [A]Bristol, heave-ye-[D]ho
Chorus
But [D]accidents will happen even to heroes such as he
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
He was standing at his capstan as happy as could be
Hoping [G]soon to have a[A]nother prize in [D]tow
When a [A]whistling Spanish bullet came and caught him in the gullet
And very sad to say, laid him [D]low
He was only ninety-[G]seven but his [D]soul had gone to [G]heaven
To [D]rest on Nelson's [A]bosom, heave-ye-[D]ho
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
With a noble crew of cut-throats he used to scour the sea
A'[G]plundering and a'[A]robbing high and [D]low
He [A]swore 'twas no concern, he did not give a herrin'
About right or wrong or any holy [D]show
He swore that grabbing [G]booty was [D]Britain's foremost [G]duty
Wher[D]ever she could [A]get it, heave-ye-[D]ho
Chorus
Heave-ye-[A]ho, heave-ye-[D]ho
He swore that grabbing [G]booty was [D]Britain's foremost [G]duty
Wher[D]ever she could [A]get it, heave-ye-[D]ho
For [D]Smith had a noble soul and lofty was his pride
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
He'd watch his beaten foe-men jump out into the tide
Call you [G]beggars who had [A]nowhere else to [D]go
And [A]hanging from his lanyards were Portuguese and Spaniards
And beaten Frenchmen jumping to and [D]fro
Right along the blazing [G]story shown [D]allure in England's [G]glory
[D]Pirate Smith of [A]Bristol, heave-ye-[D]ho
Chorus
But [D]accidents will happen even to heroes such as he
With his [G]cutlass and his [A]pistols, heave-ye-[D]ho
He was standing at his capstan as happy as could be
Hoping [G]soon to have a[A]nother prize in [D]tow
When a [A]whistling Spanish bullet came and caught him in the gullet
And very sad to say, laid him [D]low
He was only ninety-[G]seven but his [D]soul had gone to [G]heaven
To [D]rest on Nelson's [A]bosom, heave-ye-[D]ho
Introduction
Music has been an integral part of human culture since ancient times. Songs have been used to convey stories, express emotions, and preserve traditions. One such song that has stood the test of time and remains a popular folk song is 'Smith of Bristol.' This song has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time, but its essence remains the same. In this thesis, we will explore the history, meaning, and significance of the song 'Smith of Bristol.'
History of the song
The origins of 'Smith of Bristol' can be traced back to the 17th century in Bristol, England. It was a popular sea shanty often sung by sailors and workers in the ports of Bristol. The song was originally known as 'Spanish Ladies' and was believed to be a traditional English folk song. However, in the 19th century, it was given the name 'Smith of Bristol' by the famous British song collector, William Chappell.
The song gained popularity during the 19th and 20th centuries as it was sung by sailors on their long voyages. It was also a favorite among naval officers, and it is said that it was sung by the crew of the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's voyage. Over the years, the song spread beyond the shores of England and became popular among sailors and workers in other ports around the world.
Meaning of the song
The song 'Smith of Bristol' tells the story of a sailor who falls in love with a Spanish lady while on a voyage. The sailor, who is known as Smith, is smitten by the lady's beauty and charm and wants to marry her. However, he is torn between his love for the lady and his duty as a sailor. The lady, on the other hand, is also in love with Smith but is hesitant to commit to him as she is afraid of losing him to the sea.
The song is a representation of the struggles faced by sailors who were often torn between their love for the sea and their desire for a stable life on land. It also reflects the cultural and social barriers that existed between different countries during that time. The name 'Smith of Bristol' symbolizes the common man, representing the struggles of ordinary people during a time of colonization and global expansion.
Significance of the song
'Smith of Bristol' has been sung and adapted by various artists over the years, making it a part of different cultures and traditions. It has become a symbol of the sea and has been incorporated into various maritime events and ceremonies. The song has also been featured in numerous books, films, and TV shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Moreover, the song has a universal appeal as it speaks to the human desire for love and companionship, and the sacrifices one must make for it. It also serves as a reminder of the hardships faced by sailors and the risks they took for their livelihood. The song has also been used as a tool for cultural exchange, as it has been adapted and translated into different languages, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 'Smith of Bristol' is not just a song, but a representation of the struggles, sacrifices, and desires of sailors during a time of global expansion. Its enduring popularity and universal appeal make it a significant part of human culture. The song continues to be sung and adapted by different artists, keeping its legacy alive and passing it on to future generations. 'Smith of Bristol' is a reminder of the power of music to transcend time and boundaries, making it a timeless folk song that will continue to be cherished for years to come.
Music has been an integral part of human culture since ancient times. Songs have been used to convey stories, express emotions, and preserve traditions. One such song that has stood the test of time and remains a popular folk song is 'Smith of Bristol.' This song has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time, but its essence remains the same. In this thesis, we will explore the history, meaning, and significance of the song 'Smith of Bristol.'
History of the song
The origins of 'Smith of Bristol' can be traced back to the 17th century in Bristol, England. It was a popular sea shanty often sung by sailors and workers in the ports of Bristol. The song was originally known as 'Spanish Ladies' and was believed to be a traditional English folk song. However, in the 19th century, it was given the name 'Smith of Bristol' by the famous British song collector, William Chappell.
The song gained popularity during the 19th and 20th centuries as it was sung by sailors on their long voyages. It was also a favorite among naval officers, and it is said that it was sung by the crew of the HMS Beagle during Charles Darwin's voyage. Over the years, the song spread beyond the shores of England and became popular among sailors and workers in other ports around the world.
Meaning of the song
The song 'Smith of Bristol' tells the story of a sailor who falls in love with a Spanish lady while on a voyage. The sailor, who is known as Smith, is smitten by the lady's beauty and charm and wants to marry her. However, he is torn between his love for the lady and his duty as a sailor. The lady, on the other hand, is also in love with Smith but is hesitant to commit to him as she is afraid of losing him to the sea.
The song is a representation of the struggles faced by sailors who were often torn between their love for the sea and their desire for a stable life on land. It also reflects the cultural and social barriers that existed between different countries during that time. The name 'Smith of Bristol' symbolizes the common man, representing the struggles of ordinary people during a time of colonization and global expansion.
Significance of the song
'Smith of Bristol' has been sung and adapted by various artists over the years, making it a part of different cultures and traditions. It has become a symbol of the sea and has been incorporated into various maritime events and ceremonies. The song has also been featured in numerous books, films, and TV shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Moreover, the song has a universal appeal as it speaks to the human desire for love and companionship, and the sacrifices one must make for it. It also serves as a reminder of the hardships faced by sailors and the risks they took for their livelihood. The song has also been used as a tool for cultural exchange, as it has been adapted and translated into different languages, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 'Smith of Bristol' is not just a song, but a representation of the struggles, sacrifices, and desires of sailors during a time of global expansion. Its enduring popularity and universal appeal make it a significant part of human culture. The song continues to be sung and adapted by different artists, keeping its legacy alive and passing it on to future generations. 'Smith of Bristol' is a reminder of the power of music to transcend time and boundaries, making it a timeless folk song that will continue to be cherished for years to come.
Return to The Dubliners Songs
Guitar chords in the key of G
[G]Smith was a Bristol man and a rare old sort was he
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
With a noble crew of cut-throats he used to scour the sea
A'[C]plundering and a'[D]robbing high and [G]low
He [D]swore 'twas no concern, he did not give a herrin'
About right or wrong or any holy [G]show
He swore that grabbing [C]booty was [G]Britain's foremost [C]duty
Wher[G]ever she could [D]get it, heave-ye-[G]ho
Chorus
Heave-ye-[D]ho, heave-ye-[G]ho
He swore that grabbing [C]booty was [G]Britain's foremost [C]duty
Wher[G]ever she could [D]get it, heave-ye-[G]ho
For [G]Smith had a noble soul and lofty was his pride
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
He'd watch his beaten foe-men jump out into the tide
Call you [C]beggars who had [D]nowhere else to [G]go
And [D]hanging from his lanyards were Portuguese and Spaniards
And beaten Frenchmen jumping to and [G]fro
Right along the blazing [C]story shown [G]allure in England's [C]glory
[G]Pirate Smith of [D]Bristol, heave-ye-[G]ho
Chorus
But [G]accidents will happen even to heroes such as he
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
He was standing at his capstan as happy as could be
Hoping [C]soon to have a[D]nother prize in [G]tow
When a [D]whistling Spanish bullet came and caught him in the gullet
And very sad to say, laid him [G]low
He was only ninety-[C]seven but his [G]soul had gone to [C]heaven
To [G]rest on Nelson's [D]bosom, heave-ye-[G]h
[G]Smith was a Bristol man and a rare old sort was he
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
With a noble crew of cut-throats he used to scour the sea
A'[C]plundering and a'[D]robbing high and [G]low
He [D]swore 'twas no concern, he did not give a herrin'
About right or wrong or any holy [G]show
He swore that grabbing [C]booty was [G]Britain's foremost [C]duty
Wher[G]ever she could [D]get it, heave-ye-[G]ho
Chorus
Heave-ye-[D]ho, heave-ye-[G]ho
He swore that grabbing [C]booty was [G]Britain's foremost [C]duty
Wher[G]ever she could [D]get it, heave-ye-[G]ho
For [G]Smith had a noble soul and lofty was his pride
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
He'd watch his beaten foe-men jump out into the tide
Call you [C]beggars who had [D]nowhere else to [G]go
And [D]hanging from his lanyards were Portuguese and Spaniards
And beaten Frenchmen jumping to and [G]fro
Right along the blazing [C]story shown [G]allure in England's [C]glory
[G]Pirate Smith of [D]Bristol, heave-ye-[G]ho
Chorus
But [G]accidents will happen even to heroes such as he
With his [C]cutlass and his [D]pistols, heave-ye-[G]ho
He was standing at his capstan as happy as could be
Hoping [C]soon to have a[D]nother prize in [G]tow
When a [D]whistling Spanish bullet came and caught him in the gullet
And very sad to say, laid him [G]low
He was only ninety-[C]seven but his [G]soul had gone to [C]heaven
To [G]rest on Nelson's [D]bosom, heave-ye-[G]h
My Old Bristol Town Song Lyrics
Verse 1:
In the heart of England lies a city so dear
Where I spent my childhood, my memories so clear
My old Bristol town, oh how I miss thee
The streets and the buildings, they hold such beauty
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Verse 2:
From the markets to the pubs, the atmosphere's alive
The sound of the buskers, they always thrive
The graffiti art, it tells a story
Of the people and the culture, so full of glory
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Bridge:
Though I've traveled far and wide
There's no place that I'd rather reside
My old Bristol town, you'll always be my home
No matter where I roam
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Outro:
So when I close my eyes and drift away
My old Bristol town, you'll never fade away
The memories and the love, they'll never die
My old Bristol town, I'll love you till the day I die.
Verse 1:
In the heart of England lies a city so dear
Where I spent my childhood, my memories so clear
My old Bristol town, oh how I miss thee
The streets and the buildings, they hold such beauty
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Verse 2:
From the markets to the pubs, the atmosphere's alive
The sound of the buskers, they always thrive
The graffiti art, it tells a story
Of the people and the culture, so full of glory
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Bridge:
Though I've traveled far and wide
There's no place that I'd rather reside
My old Bristol town, you'll always be my home
No matter where I roam
Chorus:
My old Bristol town, where the river flows
The Clifton Suspension Bridge, it still glows
From the docks to the hills, it's a sight to see
My old Bristol town, forever in my heart it will be
Outro:
So when I close my eyes and drift away
My old Bristol town, you'll never fade away
The memories and the love, they'll never die
My old Bristol town, I'll love you till the day I die.
