Bing Crosby

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Galway Bay album cover

Galway Bay

Bing Crosby

Lyrics

3 ContributorsGalway Bay LyricsIf you ever go across the sea to Ireland
Then maybe at the closing of your day;
You will sit and watch the moonrise over Claddagh
And see the sun go down on Galway Bay
Just to hear again the ripple of the trout stream
The women in the meadows making hay;
And to sit beside a turf fire in the cabin
And watch the barefoot gossoons at their play
For the breezes blowing o'er the seas from Ireland
Are perfum'd by the heather as they blow;
And the women in the uplands diggin' praties
Speak a language that the strangers do not know
For the strangers came and tried to teach us their way
They scorn'd us just for being what we are;

But they might as well go chasing after moonbeams
Or light a penny candle from a star
And if there is going to be a life hereafter
And somehow I am sure there's going to be;
I will ask my God to let me make my heaven
In that dear land across the Irish seaYou might also likeEmbed

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Welcome to the world of Irish balladry, a place where feelings run deep and the beauty of landscape inspires verse after verse that touches the heart and soul. One of the most famous tunes that had been inspired by Ireland and sung by some of the most talented musicians of all time is surely the iconic "Galway Bay" by Bing Crosby. With its timeless lyrics, undulating melodies, and mesmerizing rhythm, this tune has been the top favorite of countless music lovers around the world ever since it was first released decades ago.

About Galway Bay

"Galway Bay" is a traditional Irish folk song that was initially composed and sung by Dr. Arthur Colahan, an Irish composer, and songwriter. It was later made famous by one of the most celebrated artists of all times, Bing Crosby, who recorded it in his signature style. The song is set in the beautiful lands of Galway Bay, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast of Ireland. The tune highlights the stunning natural beauty of this enchanting place, with rolling hills, rugged coastline, and crystal-clear streams that sparkles in the sun.

Like most of the traditional Irish ballads, "Galway Bay" reflects the deep-seated yearning and nostalgia for the homeland that is a classic theme of the Irish diaspora around the world. The lyrics tell the story of an Irishman who left his homeland to seek his fortune in a far-off land but always longed to return to the beautiful shores of Galway Bay. It is a song of love, longing, and loss that has touched millions of hearts over the years and has become the ultimate expression of Irish pride and sentimentality.

The melody of "Galway Bay" is as uplifting and rich as the lyrics, with soaring highs and low, melodious lows that capture the very essence of Irish music. It features a haunting flute interlaced with vocals that evoke the deepest emotions hidden in the human heart. From Bing Crosby's compelling version to the popular renditions by the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, and many others, this tune has become a staple of Irish folk music and an essential part of the music landscape around the world.

Whether it is the opening notes of the flute or the evocative lyrics that speak to you, "Galway Bay" is undoubtedly one of the most alluring and captivating tunes ever composed. It carries with it a sense of place, time, and culture, making it more than a song. It is a window into the heart of Ireland, its people, its landscapes, and its rich traditions.

Conclusion

In summary, "Galway Bay" is a song that captures the very essence of Irish life, history, and culture. It tells a story of love and longing that is universal and timeless, and its soaring melody and evocative lyrics stir the deepest emotions in the listener. If it is your first time listening to this iconic tune or the hundredth, each time will be as sweet and mesmerizing as the first, and you will understand why it has resonated so much with music lovers around the world for over decades. So, sit back and let the haunting melody and beautiful lyrics transport you to the magical shores of Galway Bay, where time stands still, and beauty reigns supreme.