Ireland has a song for everything. Love, emigration, rebellion, heartbreak, drinking, leaving home – you name it.
Let’s look at the greatest Irish ballads of all time. Be ready to sing along to some of the most catchy, popular, and sad tunes.
The list includes everything from Irish-language songs to modern classics and old folk songs that are very closely linked to Ireland. DJ, hit play!
15. Peigín Leitir Móir – in Irish and very catchy
Starting our list is ‘Peigín Leitir Móir’, an Irish-language song from the early 20th century. This catchy folk song is about a very beautiful woman, who is attractive to men from different areas of the country. When this song comes on, you won’t be able to sit still.
14. Siúil a Rúin – even mentioned in literature
Another Irish-language song has made the list. Here’s a very interesting, fun fact: Stephen Dedalus sings this particular song in James Joyce’s Ulysses. It tells the story of a woman whose partner has joined the military. The title translates to “Go, my love”.
13. The Wild Rover – a classic all over
‘The Wild Rover’ may not have originated in Ireland; however, it is connected to the Emerald Isle and very popular there. A man returning to the pub he used to frequent and being denied a drink until he shows money? It could definitely be in Ireland.
12. Song for Ireland – it’s in the name
First recorded in 1977, ‘Song for Ireland’ is a modern classic. It was written by the English singer Phil Colclough and his wife June. The song praises Ireland’s beauty, her nature, and her people. We can all feel it, can’t we?
11. The Black Velvet Band – used in TV shows
A traditional song, ‘The Black Velvet Band’, talks about a part of Irish history – being transported to Australia when it was a penal colony. The Dubliners recorded a very popular version of it, but did you know that the song was also used in Peaky Blinders?
10. The Star of the County Down – not a star in the sky
Probably the most famous song from its county, ‘The Star of County Down’ is – of course – talking about a very beautiful woman. Many artists have recorded this song, including Belfast singer Van Morrison.
9. The Town I Loved So Well – covered many times
Have you ever wondered what town this song is about? It’s Derry. Save that piece of information for the next trivia night. The song has been covered several times and also translated into other languages. You can see why it has to be on our list.
8. Danny Boy – the pipes are calling
Sinéad sang it. Elvis sang it. It’s none other than ‘Danny Boy’. Although written by an Englishman, the song is still very much considered an Irish song – it’s been set to an Irish melody.
7. Raglan Road – a street in Dublin
Based on a poem by Patrick Kavanagh, ‘Raglan Road’ is named after the Dublin street. The poem and the song are about unrequited love. The song also features in the movie In Bruges, one of the funniest Irish movies.
6. Rocky Road to Dublin – a story full of adventure
‘Rocky Road to Dublin’ tells the story of a man trying to seek his fortune somewhere else. He leaves Tuam in County Galway, makes his way to Dublin on foot, gets robbed in the city, and in the end arrives in Liverpool, England. It’s quite the adventure for him.
5. Whiskey in the Jar – at every pub
Can you really not sing along with this one? Be honest, you’re already moving your feet. You might think of the Metallica version now, but it was popular long before their cover. In the song, a highwayman is betrayed by his partner.
4. Grace – based on a heartbreaking true story
The song ‘Grace’ is full of emotion and Irish history, telling the story of Grace Gifford and how she married her fiancé Joseph Mary Plunkett the night before he was executed at Kilmainham Gaol for his role in the Easter Rising.
3. The Parting Glass – a sad, but great song
Yes, ‘The Parting Glass’ is considered a Scottish song. However, it is still very much associated with and closely linked to Ireland and considered one of the most moving Irish funeral songs. It’s the final send-off.
2. The Auld Triangle – a prison song
This song brings us back to prison, again. This time it’s Mountjoy. One of the most catchy parts of the song is the Jingle Jangle – the sound the metal triangle at the prison makes every morning to wake up the inmates. Who would have thought?
1. The Fields of Athenry – Irish history in a song
There’s no other song that could take the top spot – it has to be ‘The Fields of Athenry’. There’s no sporting event, pub, or other Irish gathering that will not start singing as soon as you hear the first notes.
Let’s just say it: Ireland seems to have a talent for turning history, everyday life, and even a night at the pub into a song. From traditional folk songs to modern classics, these ballads have become a huge part of Irish culture.
So, whether you’re singing along in a pub or listening at home, there’s always an Irish song worth putting on. Now, hit play, enjoy, and plan your next trip to the Emerald Isle!
