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Song Origin

Song Origin

Does anyone know who composed the song "The Streets of Derry" as sung by Al O'Donnell?

# Posted on October 16th 2009 by JudeThomas

Re: Song Origin

Traditional. His sleeve notes say "Dates roughly from the 1750s", so composer's name is probably lost.

# Posted on October 16th 2009 by Kenny

Re: Song Origin

http://www.thesession.org/recordings/display/3478

# Posted on October 16th 2009 by Kenny

Re: Song Origin

Thanks Kenny

# Posted on October 16th 2009 by JudeThomas

Re: Song Origin

Apparently it's originally English and that it's actually much older than the popularized Irish variant, but I don't really know. I can't remember where I heard that so I can't say whether or not it's a reliable source.

# Posted on October 17th 2009 by dannym

Re: Song Origin

Very old song in any case, probably of unknown composition.

# Posted on October 17th 2009 by dannym

Re: Song Origin

Thanks. Yes, very nice song, done well here too:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrxD9mxd6ug

# Posted on October 17th 2009 by Duijera Dubh

Re: Song Origin

Is there something about Ulster songs or what?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-oquRLcmAM

# Posted on October 17th 2009 by Duijera Dubh

Re: Song Origin

It seems to be an Ulster version of the song "Geordie' from the Child Ballads. The theme of 'last minute rescue from execution' is a very old one.

# Posted on October 23rd 2009 by Sharon the Flute

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