Folksong “Arthur McBride” by Paul Brady

[Dieter]

By chance I came across a wonderful Irish folk song, which Paul Brady interprets just as wonderfully with guitar and vocals in an open tuning in 1977. Enjoy and judge for yourself.

Dieter

[Mark H]

I totally agree, it’s an old favorite of mine. Paul Brady is very special, and unique if you study his guitar and vocals.

Here’s the first version I heard, recorded by Planxty at the height of their powers. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it much as I did at the time, happy memories. Thanks for reminding us of it:

[Dieter]

Hi Mark, Planxty’s version is also great. The band name probably refers to the famous Irish bard Turlough O Carolan from the 16th century, who created the term, the meaning of which is still unclear as far as I know. In the 1970s, there was also a great enthusiasm for Irish folk music in Germany, the best known and most popular group being The Dubliners. I was also infected with this great music back then.

Dieter

[Mark H]

If you haven’t already seen it you’ll enjoy this. I believe there’s a much longer version somewhere on youTube as well:

[JoeD1]

I never heard of this song or Paul Brady before. It’s a pretty cool song.

Joe

The sight of a touch, or the scent of a sound,
Or the strength of an Oak with roots deep in the ground.
--Graeme Edge

[Author]

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