The Jolly Roving Tar Lyrics And Chords

"The Jolly Roving Tar" is a traditional sea shanty and folk song that celebrates the life and adventures of sailors, or "tars," as they were often called in the 18th and 19th centuries. The song is lighthearted and playful, telling a story of sailors who work hard at sea and spend their earnings on leisure and romance when they return to shore. Here's a breakdown of its meaning and themes:

Themes and Story of the Song:

1. The Life of a Sailor:
   
   • The term "tar" refers to a sailor, a nickname derived from their use of tar to waterproof ropes and protect clothing. The song’s central figure is a "jolly roving tar," symbolizing a cheerful, carefree, and adventurous sailor.
   • The song paints a vivid picture of the sailor’s life, alternating between the hardships of life at sea and the joys of shore leave.
2. Spending Wages on Shore:
   
   • One of the main themes of the song is how sailors spend their hard-earned money on food, drink, and companionship as soon as they return to port. The lyrics often mention taverns, women, and merrymaking as key parts of shore life.
   • It reflects the historical reality that many sailors quickly spent their wages before returning to sea, a common stereotype in maritime culture.
3. Temporary Love and Companionship:
   
   • There’s a humorous and bittersweet element to the relationships depicted in the song. The sailor’s love interests are often depicted as fleeting or tied to his wealth, suggesting that romantic attachments were temporary and conditional.
4. The Cycle of Sea Life:
   
   • The song captures the repetitive nature of the sailor’s life: going to sea, enduring hardship, returning to shore, spending their money, and leaving again. This cycle is central to the identity of the "jolly roving tar."

Tone and Mood:

• The song is typically upbeat, with a lively melody that reflects the sailor’s carefree spirit and zest for life.
• Despite its humor and celebration, there’s a subtle acknowledgment of the challenges sailors faced and the temporary nature of their happiness ashore.

Cultural and Historical Context:

• Sea shanties like "The Jolly Roving Tar" were used to keep sailors in rhythm while working on ships. They also served as entertainment during long voyages.
• The song reflects the seafaring culture of the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly the British and North American maritime traditions.

Legacy and Popularity:

• The song has been performed by various folk and sea shanty artists, including The Irish Rovers and Stan Rogers. Its catchy tune and relatable themes have helped it remain a staple of folk music and maritime history.

The lyrics and chords fit the Irish Rovers’ from their album ‚Another Round’ (2002). 
Use a capo on the 3rd fret to change the key to F major. The tin whistle sheet music notes are included in the key of G Major plus the mandolin tab.This ''Sea Shanty'' was also recorded by Assassin's Creed Rogue and Great Big Sea band who recorded The Chemical Workers Song .​Jolly roving tar guitar tab now included.

Intro: G-D-Em-G   D-G-(Em-A)-D

Well (D)here we are, we're (Bm)back again
(D)Safe upon the (A)shore
In (D)Belfast town we'd (Bm)like to (G)stay
And (D)go to (A)sea no (D)more
We'll (G)go in(D)to a (A)public (Bm)house
And (G)drink till (Em)we're con(A)tent
For the (D)lassies they will (G)love us (Em)till 
Our (A)money is all (D)spent

Chorus
So (G)pass the flowin' (D)bowl
Boys there's (Em)whiskey in the (G)jar
And we'll (D)drink to all the (G)lassies (Em)and 
The (G)jolly (A)roving (D)tar

Bridge: (A)-D-(G-Em)-(G-A)-D

Oh (D)Johnny did you (Bm)miss me when 
The (D)nights were long and (A)cold
Or (D)did you find a(Bm)nother (G)love
(D)In your (A)arms to (D)hold?
Says (G)he I (D)thought of (A)only (Bm)you
While (G)on the (Em)sea a(A)far
So come (D)up the stairs and (G)cuddle (Em)with 
Your (A)jolly roving (D)tar

Chorus + Bridge

Well (D)in each other's (Bm)arms they rolled
(D)Till the break of (A)day
When the (D)sailor rose and (Bm)said fare(G)well
I (D)must be (A)on me (D)way
Ah (G)don't you (D)leave me (A)Johnny (Bm)lad
I (G)thought you'd (Em)marry (A)my
Says (D)he I can't be (G)married (Em)for 
I'm (A)married to the (D)sea

Chorus + Instrumental verse

Well come (D)all you bonnie (Bm)lasses now
A (D)warning take by (A)me
And (D)never trust an (Bm)Irish(G)man 
An (D)inch a(A)bove your (D)knee
He'll (G)tease you (D)and he'll (A)squeeze (Bm)you 
And (G)when he's (Em)had his (A)fun
He'll (D)leave you in the (G)morning (Em)with 
A (A)daughter or a (D)son

Chorus twice
Outro: (A)-D-(G-Em)-(G-A)-D - D

​The Jolly Roving Tar is a popular sea shanty that has been sung by sailors for centuries. It is a lively and upbeat song that captures the spirit and camaraderie of life at sea. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a sailor who is proud of his life as a seafarer and the adventures he has experienced while traveling the world. The song has been passed down through generations of sailors and has become an integral part of maritime culture.

The origins of the Jolly Roving Tar song can be traced back to the 19th century when it was first sung by English sailors. It is believed that the song was written by a sailor who wanted to express his love for the sea and the freedom that comes with a life of sailing. The song quickly became popular among sailors and was often sung during long voyages to pass the time and boost morale.

One of the reasons for the enduring popularity of the Jolly Roving Tar song is its catchy melody and simple lyrics. The song has a repetitive chorus that is easy to sing along to, making it perfect for a group of sailors to sing together. The lyrics also reflect the rugged and adventurous lifestyle of a sailor, making it relatable to those who have spent time at sea.

The Jolly Roving Tar song is also significant because it provides a glimpse into the lives of sailors during the 19th century. It highlights the challenges and hardships that sailors faced during their voyages, such as rough seas, long hours of work, and being away from loved ones for extended periods. However, it also celebrates the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie that developed among sailors as they faced these challenges together.

The song also sheds light on the cultural diversity of sailors during the 19th century. It was sung by sailors from different countries and backgrounds, and the lyrics often varied depending on the region or country the sailor was from. This demonstrates the universal appeal and adaptability of the song, as it was able to bring together sailors from different cultures and backgrounds.

Moreover, the Jolly Roving Tar song has evolved over the years, with different versions and variations being created by sailors from all around the world. This is a testament to the song's enduring popularity and its ability to be adapted to fit different cultures and contexts. Each new version of the song adds to its rich history and keeps it alive for future generations of sailors to enjoy.

The Jolly Roving Tar song also holds a special place in popular culture, with references to it appearing in literature, film, and music. It has been featured in various movies and TV shows, including the popular Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place in the cultural landscape.

In conclusion, the Jolly Roving Tar song is a timeless and iconic sea shanty that has captivated sailors and non-sailors alike for centuries. Its catchy melody, simple lyrics, and relatable themes have made it a staple of maritime culture and an important part of the seafaring experience. Its enduring popularity and adaptability are a testament to the universal appeal and significance of this song, and it will continue to be sung by sailors for generations to come.

The Jolly Roving Tar Sheet Music And Tin Whistle Notes

Jolly Roving Tar Mandolin Tab

The jolly roving tar sheet music and tin whistle notes