The Fields Of Athenry (Irish Folk Ballad)

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#TheFieldsOfAthenry #TheDubliners #IrishMusic #Irish #Trad #Folk #Celtic

[@ColmRMcGuinness]

What Irish songs should I Cover in the New Year??? GO GO GO!

[@edmoores]

Grace and Beeswing are 2 awesome songs

[@Meg.01]

Tell me ma!

[@ianreclusado]

Battle of Waterloo, not sure if it’s by The Old Blind Dogs but…. kzbin.info/www/bejne/en6qfqeYbZeqi9E

[@pyroSlam]

Spancil hill..

[@russv4753]

Eleanor na run!

[@grahamthomas9319]

By a lonely prison wall I heard a young girl calling "Michael, they have taken you away For you stole Trevelyan's corn So the young might see the morn Now a prison ship lies waiting in the bay" Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry By a lonely prison wall I heard a young man calling "Nothing matters, Mary, when you're free Against the famine and the crown I rebelled, they cut me down Now you must raise our child with dignity" Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry By a lonely harbour wall She watched the last star falling As that prison ship sailed out against the sky For she lived in hope and pray For her love in Botany Bay It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry

[@localeditor2148]

Thank you!

[@LoveDeathEmbrace]

Thank you!!

[@treynienhuser2616]

Thanks mate!

[@milanbartu8699]

thank ya mate

[@Supportivechaos]

The hero we need

[@spmoran4703]

This song is sung all over Ireland . It tells a sad story of a man being transported to Australia, for stealing vegetable from a English invaders stolen land . Ironic the man was found guilty of stealing . But, it was to feed his family . Erin go braugh!

[@christianfreedom-seeker934]

Erin Go Braugh! Long live Ireland 🇮🇪

[@NWTNF]

See there is some massive holes with that statement, That person broke laws, they got punished for it, if he has stole from another person that wasn't English chances are he would have been shot in Ireland so really while yes Transportation was a cruel sentence for theft, it was the law. Don't mistake your nationalist sentiment for historical facts.

[@spmoran4703]

@@christianfreedom-seeker934 Aye .

[@spmoran4703]

@@NWTNF As if I care what you think . The fact is in the song. Complain to the writer of the song not me. Truth often hurts . And if it hurt you too bad .

[@theeddorian]

@@NWTNF The famine mentioned was a "famine" in only one sense. The potato crops were blighted, but the crown refused to step in and see that wheat or barley, which were not in any shortage, be made available to Irish markets. It would have raise prices in England, perish the very thought. The choice the fellow made was to attempt to feed his family when landlords refused to sell. While the toll of deaths due to the famine is not known with certainty, the common estimates fall somewhere between half a million and one-and-a-half million. The authorities at the time were not terribly concerned if the Irish starved or not. "Breaking the law" is a hollow, morally scant justification. He and his family could have quietly sat somewhere and starved to death, or died of cholera. In Britain somewhat earlier, the poor often deliberately broke the law because in prison you ate better than in a work house. Don't mistake a handful of historical facts for an honest view of history.

[@williamoreilly7817]

I lost my baby boy, Jared, 10 days ago. In the early hours of Thursday 4th Jan 2024. He was a day shy of 18 weeks. Whilst my wife was delivering his body and placenta, the chorus of this version of the song was stuck on repeat in my head. It was a distraction from the horrific experience we were going through; we'll be having it played at his funeral. No other version will ever come close to the raw passion displayed in Colm's voice.

[@denisimo35]

May his spirit and memory be present whenever you hear this song. It is a wonderful way to connect with who you never had the chance to really know. Respect, my friend.

[@mathunt1130]

I'm sorry for your loss.

[@p.f132]

That Rock voice at "Low lie" in the chorus tingles just right in the ears. What an incredible interpretation of this song.

[@spookyspoon4192]

LYRICS: By a lonely prison wall, I heard a young girl calling Michael, they have taken you away, For you stole Trevelyan's corn, So the young might see the morn. Now a prison ship lies waiting in the bay. Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing, we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry. By a lonely prison wall, I heard a young man calling Nothing matters, Mary, when you're free Against the famine and the Crown, I rebelled, they cut me down. Now you must raise our child with dignity. Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing, we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry. By a lonely harbor wall, She watched the last star falling As that prison ship sailed out against the sky Sure she lived in hope and pray'r, for her love in Botany Bay It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry. It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry. Low lie the fields of Athenry Where once we watched the small free birds fly Our love was on the wing, we had dreams and songs to sing It's so lonely 'round the fields of Athenry.

[@NormusDiabolus]

I still remember the first time hearing this song, when the Irish friends sang it in the match against spain in 2012. Our german tv commenter just stopped talking so we could hear the fans sing for whole five minutes. We were at home watching it with friends... no one talked, just listening to the fans singing. 2019 I finally managed to take my motorcycle to irland and travel the country for two weeks. And while you are a close second the 2012 stadion version of this song from the irish fans is still my favorite ;)

[@Robbikelly]

Always welcome my friend 🇮🇪🇩🇪

[@Sineadmcd]

Welcome back anytime

[@snookums01]

A very haunting and emotional version, the best I've heard. On my fathers side of the family, I am a descendant of convicts sent from the UK to Australia, this song is very much part of my history. My however number of greats grandfather went down for stealing and my equally number of greats grandmother was transported for stealing while in service. While some were sent here for life, even a "short" sentence of 7 years was a life sentence because, once free, there was very little chance of ever returning home. The unspoken truth in this song is that Michael might never have returned home to Athenry but instead started a new life and family in Australia.

[@khyron96]

American with Irish ancestry, we never get to hear these songs. We have visited Ireland several times now and these songs live in the hearts and pubs of the Irish. You sir have opened this part of my history. As your passionate singing lures me into learning my history and that of Ireland. Australia and America are so similar in many ways.

[@A8T8T]

I love the anger and anguish you put into this song, because those people where not to blame for the famine, not to blame for their pain, they where victims of the Lords greed and tyranny. Thank you Colm for bringing your voice to our ears ❤

[@necromancer6405]

I think it sounds horrible.

[@blackberry9766]

@@necromancer6405 There wasn't really a need for this comment, was there? Click off and scroll. All you got to do

[@mattbarker336]

@@necromancer6405 Get your ears checked then

[@benjaminbrothers1658]

@@necromancer6405 you sir, don't have good taste. 👎

[@DeepFriedKangaroo2]

@@necromancer6405 There always has to be one of you trolls, doesn't there? Everyone is entitled to their opinion (even if yours is objectively wrong), but you don't have to be a putz about it.

[@alexisharper241]

Athenry is a punch to the gut, and your rendition of it is moving; kudos to you as always for yet another gorgeous cover.

[@Entrak]

There's the Dubliners. And then, there's Colm McGuinness. Both making you love Irish music.

[@manuelsousa9503]

And The Chieftains?

[@raptormann]

You give this song the kind of mournful intensity that I feel a lot of covers miss. This is now among my favorite versions of this classic song.

[@stevehall9333]

Love this song, and I'm an Englishman - never better than sung by an Irish international rugby crowd.

[@johnnavarre2384]

I have heard so many covers of this song and I love this song to death. So many artists sing it as a somber ballad. You brought a different energy to it that I didn't know this song needed, but now sounds weird without it. That energy you brought to the chorus felt like anguish projecting through the lyrics and it sounds truly amazing. I can't stop listening to this

[@mycenaeangal9312]

This song is hitting hard rn. A weird sort of mixed uppedness as it applies to my life but all the pieces are still there. Imigrating to australia, worried about governments denying me a life with my love, Tyranny worsening at home. The last piece that's missing is the atmosphere of death and desperation but I can see that around the corner. I wish I could sing. I wish could give voice to all of the grief I'm feeling...

[@shaycormac4522]

This song is so beautiful. It made me cry. Well done Colm McGuinness! ☘️🇮🇪

[@benjaminbrothers1658]

Wow..... I'm so excited!! I requested this song back in 2020 or 2021 can't remember, but it doesn't matter!!! This is going to be so good!!

[@gracebrothers8672]

Hey buddy!! It's your favorite sister!!!

[@benjaminbrothers1658]

Nooo! stop texting me through KZbin on the couch from the living room 😂

[@jallybwan3767]

least chronically online gen z siblings 😂

[@benjaminbrothers1658]

@@jallybwan3767 lol

[@samhampton6771]

This is pretty well the story of my family 7 generations ago. Gods bless you from Australia. Freedom for Ireland and the colonies.

[@Athene.]

I will never stop spreading your music and praising you to every person on the planet that will listen. Your vocal range and music styles always both me away!

[@katet_33]

FINALLY! This is my all time favorite Irish folk song.

[@EngineerWhen]

This was my high school (unofficial) anthem that students sang at the end of the last class before graduation. Don't know why, as I am Italian and I attended high school in Italy, but it's nice (and makes way more sense) hearing it from you!

[@inferno7076]

I really like all the irish folk covers, they sound so cozey, like something you would sing at a campfire with friends. Unfortunately I gotta work tomorrow so I sadly won't make it to the premiere but I'll listen to it on my way home:)

[@Kothlim]

You dont wanna be bawling your eyes out at work anyway.

[@spmoran4703]

Fields of Athenry is not a cosy song.

[@kairussell2156]

Beautiful is an understatement. I think awesome in the literal sense is accurate. Your performance changed my breathing. Mom told me that Uncle Flip used to sing The Fields of Athenry, so I learned to sing it too. It has such a strong feeling of heartbreak and powerlessness. Your performance, I feel, takes that heartbreak and rises against that powerlessness to fight, no matter the outcome. Now to share this video!

[@lumberjackofalltrades]

I just can't stop playing this song over and over. Something about the absolutely beautiful rock base in the chorus with the anguish in his voice... I get Chills. Every. Single. Time.

[@jasonm.shepard3641]

I pushed through the tears singing along to this... Well done, mate! Happy New Year from your Louisiana Irishman!

[@benduck3551]

As an Australian with a lot of Irish Heritage I want to say thank you to colm for making this. Your so talented man, my favourite artist at the moment :)

[@stephenw5711]

You must have irish soldiers in your bloodline. Alot were sent to Oz

[@patriciamarr6032]

i havent heard this song in years, over 20, Colm your version bought tears to my eyes and my heart to feel the pain of the injustices done by humans to each other

[@sparker455]

I love the deep background vocals when he sings the chorus

[@mongosragnarok]

Oh my god, thank you for this!! Colm, you are the man!! Now that is what I call an awesome Christmas gift!!!!

[@TheMarinePainter]

I discovered your channel today. It has already enriched my life. Thank you sir. Thank your for charging timeless music with the soul touching energy it deserves.

[@wjosephusw]

Honestly you've created my favorite version of this song I've ever heard.

[@brendansullivan7867]

I have not heard this song in a long time. Was a great rendition.

[@trincywalker7497]

Finally he sang it YES YES YES. (jumping up and down screaming) I always get chills from Colms voice.

[@Valfothr]

There's just something that hits different with Irish folk songs.

[@ericjones2404]

Paddy Reilly would be proud seeing this! Excellent performance!

[@AdamAVFC90]

Absolutely beautiful 🇮🇪❤️

[@panopticemu]

OMG thank you so much I'd forgotten this song existed but it's one of my favourites

[@neogabi511]

I've always loved this song and your rendition of it is glorious! You convey such a great range of emotion from righteous anger at the injustice of it all to the sorrowful last goodbye. Just beautiful.

[@wolfieworby5653]

God I wish I was even a fraction talented as you are. Just found this song and I must've listened to it 30 times already. Thanks for the music Colm. 👍

[@incikaticaa]

Thank You... ❤

[@sandyjakum7639]

His voice is powerful and emotional. Exceptional performer.

[@js_musicmedia8981]

I appreciate how your version of this song is so much more sorrowful than any other I’ve heard. It fits the story quite well

[@adamshank7711]

The way you sing low lie the fields of athenry gives me chills every time

[@LiseMLBK]

Colm u have the most supreme golden voice. I fly with every tone in this song, tho u are singing of such sorrow - I still fly upwards with such rebellion - much love

[@mikeyw7386]

One of my favourite songs, and this is such an amazing version!!!! Really stirs the feels.

[@parkerbrown-nesbit1747]

I first heard this in 1987, when a member of our folk trio Shiehallion introduced it. I've loved it ever since. Lovely job!

[@KenMcGeachy]

Amazing how Colm so often brings tears to my eyes...

[@allietiess]

I learned this song growing up, it has a special place with me. It's amazing hearing such a lovely cover of it, great job!!

[@Talven_Daluka]

I have grown up with this song since I was a child. My mother was a HUGE Paddy Reilly fan. This has made my week. Thank you so much.

[@afk2514]

One of the most powerful, liberating and beautiful songs I have ever heard.

[@frankwalsh1916]

I must have heard this song a million times, but it always moves me. Especially this beautiful version.

[@Fantazaplays]

Re watched the video at least 30 times already. First thought to myself "That tremble is so beautiful", then you hit in the bass. Absolutely love your voice and the vocal range is stunning. Bravo!

[@theevildrummingsithlord1492]

My jaw dropped when I heard this! I really wanted to sing along at the top of my lungs, but I couldn't simply because I was in the library. Beautiful rendition!

[@waseemabbaslohawala3448]

The melody is just amazinggg

[@bennyhokkaido559]

I always get emotional when I hear this song. Congrats Colm! You're always awesome.

[@emmapampling4239]

Absolutely breathtaking 😍😍

[@kettheartgirl1916]

beautiful rendition of this

[@paperprincess1050]

Wow, great

[@Fialeja]

Goosebumps all over!!!!

[@ProgrammedForDamage]

The first time I ever heard this song was the No Use For a Name cover version. Took me years before I heard it sung at "proper" speed. I love that version.

[@pillager6376]

I have something to confess, I only just subscribed to your channel after weeks of listening to it as all this time I hadnt even realised I wasnt supporting your channel properly yet. Just listening to this song makes me so emotional.

[@buggle2113]

that "low, lie" hits fucking different, excellent cover of the song Colm, never dissappoint do ya

[@wamatok]

Another amazing cover!!!

[@Jonah_Lee8472]

I'm not crying, you're crying! Would love to hear a solo rendition of Hallelujah or Ronja's Lullaby

[@hairy-dairyman]

Transportation was how my family came to Australia on the second fleet. The only charge recorded we could find was "pilfering"

[@Skyebright1]

It was stuff like stealing cheese, I mean the crimes were for very mild theft usually

[@DarkCavalry1228]

Four Green Fields....seriously. Tommy Makem said you are the only man alive who could do it justice!

[@Hydracakes]

already got chills 2 seconds in. amazing Colm!!!

[@TheNinjaSandwichOG]

Grew up in Blackpool. This song is basically ingrained in my childhood thanks to the sheer amount of Irish folk in that town.

[@piotrsyczak]

Hey baby let the free birds fly !

[@stephengerlach4282]

one of your best!

[@anthonymurphy3021]

wow so powerful. I feel my heritage

[@jamespike5161]

Pouring one out for the blood that was spilled to give us this music. I don’t know your name, nor your face, nor when you lived exactly, but whomever you were, this one is for you. May you rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord. 🥃

[@amg4436]

A spine chilling rendition of an absolute classic, cheers Colm! My new favourite rendition of this song

[@xMrBlack]

Belt it out boy!

[@ragedterror2003]

oh my god the chills i got from this, i absolutely love it, youve got a new fan!

[@eoinrollins702]

Thank you, just thank you

[@Murasai82]

This conveys so many emotions! Well done, Sir!

[@matthewarzoumanian1786]

Absolutely beautiful song, angelic voice, outstanding job Mr. McGuinness, thank you.

[@leekestner1554]

Chills. This is your best yet. It pulls your heart right to your throat.

[@ninejdan9]

Beautiful thank you for all the effort you put in.

[@karendebbiejohnson7480]

Goosebumps from the very first note. Bravo!

[@grim789]

I love your Irish covers there some of my favorite songs! The story the pain the passion it's beautiful.

[@krios7299]

You know i took a break from watching your channel for a while (Last video i ever watched from you was Daughter of the Sea. First video i ever watched by you was Lowlands away) and WOW the amount of content i can listen too and your voice is just HEAVENLY! The low notes and high notes you can hit just give me a fistful of euphoria to listen too! Keep working hard man your videos are amazing and take peoples breaths away!

[@eliyahteague2329]

Hauntingly beautiful. A masterclass cover and instant new favorite!

[@kaeldrarhiannon]

My goodness your voice is so gorgeous. It blows me away every single time.

[@rudagamer9589]

Thank you! I have wanted you to do this song for ages

[@owenshale8719]

This man has a beautiful voice glad that there are wonderful KZbin channel like this on here

[@Ganpignanus]

wonderful, soulful and haunting

[@Caramelle58]

Beautiful song 🌺

[@raptormann]

It's like you're reading my mind for requests with several of your most recent videos, I think "I wish Colm would sing this" and then you do. I love it.

[@wittyusernamefailed2357]

Wow. Honestly I wasn't so excited for another cover of this, but as another comment said, you brought an energy and a tone to it I have never encountered ini this song. Made it much more heartbreaking somehow. I also love what you did with the harmonies, adding the full spectrum only at the last chorus. They hit harder like that, and the beginning feels desolate. (Wish I could express my appreciation more, but I'm down with covid, and it's hard to be coherent.) Definitely a favourite from now on, even better for being unexpected.

[@dossphosmedia]

I have heard many covers of this song but never one that capture the anger and hopelessness of the topic so perfectly.

[@nightsong89]

Oh... this rendition is just lovely, absolutely lovely.

[@Clader213]

Always a pleasure. Great song to end the year on.

[@ResisterOfEvil]

I keep coming back to this song, I love your cover and this song!

[@Liesbeth22]

3:09 daaaayummm 😳😍 Wow, chills man! I looooveee this song! This ends up in my liked list. 🥰

[@NicolasClark7732]

I don't normally like a video before listening or watching, but this calls for an exception to that.

[@zackwolf974]

Best cover ever!!!!!!!!

[@kerutlj]

Your voice moves me, thanks Colm!