"The Wild Rover" is the most widely performed Irish song, although its exact origins are unknown.
The song is a staple for artists performing live music in Irish pubs.
Historically, the song has been referred to in Irish folklore and, since the late sixteenth century, it has been noted in written records, although it is likely that some northern Atlantic fishing crews knew the song before these historical accounts were made.
Lyrics
I've been a wild rover for many's the year. And I've spent all me money on whiskey and beer. But now I'm returning with gold in great store. And I never will play the wild rover no more.
And it's no, nay, never. No, nay, never, no more. Will I play the wild rover. No, never, no more.
I went into an ale-house I used to frequent. And I told the landlady me money was spent. I asked her for credit, she answered me nay. Such a custom as yours I can have any day.
And it's no, nay, never. No, nay, never, no more. Will I play the wild rover. No, never, no more.
I took out from me pocket ten sovereigns bright. And the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight. She said I have whiskey and wine of the best. And the words that she told me were only in jest.
And it's no, nay, never. No, nay, never, no more. Will I play the wild rover. No, never, no more.
I'll go home to me parents, confess what I've done. And I'll ask them to pardon their prodigal son. And when they've caressed me as oft' times before. Then I never will play the wild rover no more.
And it's no, nay, never. o, nay, never, no more. Will I play the wild rover. No, never, no more.
