In Ireland, traditional songs have become veritable cultural anthems. And the song “Galway Girl” is one of them! Part of Ireland’s traditional heritage, this song is often performed in the atmosphere of Ireland’s noisy pubs and verdant landscapes. So much so that we challenge you to find an Irishman who doesn’t know it by heart!
Want to find out more? Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of this song performed by some of the world’s greatest stars!
Contrary to popular belief, “Galway Girl” is not a centuries-old traditional song. It was actually written by Steve Earle and published in 2000.
Despite its relatively recent status, the song quickly gained in popularity and is now considered an unofficial Irish anthem.
It tells the story of a man who falls in love with a girl from Galway, a town in the west of Ireland. In the song, the singer recounts his love at first sight for this girl with blue eyes and black hair.
In Ireland, the song Galway Girl is a musical classic. But why is it so successful?
It all starts with his music. The track is catchy and makes you want to dance. It has all the hallmarks of traditional Irish music, featuring guitar, fiddle and many other typically Irish instruments!
But there’s a lot more to his success than just an air of friendliness. The lyrics manage to capture a certain Irish state of mind. For many, they would even make foreigners want to visit Galway!
The song has been covered many times, each artist adding his or her own unique touch. One particularly famous version is by Ed Sheeran, who released his own interpretation in 2017. Although different from the original, this version helped introduce “Galway Girl” to a whole new generation.
Nevertheless, here’s a look at the notable artists who performed “Galway Girl” in its original version:
The song’s original creator, Steve Earle, released “Galway Girl” in 2000. His version is a clever blend of country and rock, with a hint of Celtic influences.
Sharon Shannon, an Irish accordionist, collaborated with Steve Earle on one of the most popular versions of the song. Their performance features traditional Irish instruments, making it a particularly enjoyable listen for folk music fans.
Irish artist Mundy also produced a very popular version of “Galway Girl”, which is often played in pubs and gatherings in Ireland. His interpretation is light and festive, while respecting the spirit of the original version.
Probably the best-known version internationally, Ed Sheeran put his own spin on “Galway Girl” in 2017. Its more contemporary version incorporates elements of pop and hip-hop, making it a hit with younger audiences.
This Irish group, known for their theatrical performances, also included “Galway Girl” in their repertoire. Their version is more orchestrated and offers a listening experience rich in musical textures.
This Irish folk band also performed a version of “Galway Girl”. Their interpretation highlights the simplicity and authenticity of the song, while adding a modern touch.
Another interpretation that popularized the song was that of Gerard Butler in the romantic film PS I Love You. The actor sings the song in a pub in a festive atmosphere, under the fascinated eyes of Hillary Swank.
Well, I took a stroll on the old long walk
Of a day -i-ay-i-ay
I met a little girl and we stopped to talk
Of a fine soft day -i-ay-i-ay
And I ask you, friend, what’s a fella to do
‘Cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue
And I knew right then I’d be takin’ a whirl
‘Round the salthill prom with a galway girl
We were halfway there when the rain came down
Of a day -i-ay-i-ay
And she asked me up to her flat downtown
Of a fine soft day -i-ay-i-ay
And I ask you, friend, what’s a fella to do
‘Cause her hair was black and her eyes were blue
So I took her hand and I gave her a twirl
And I lost my heart to a galway girl
When I woke up I was all alone
With a broken heart and a ticket home
And I ask you now, tell me what would you do
If her hair was black and her eyes were blue
I’ve traveled around I’ve been all over this world
Boys I ain’t never seen nothin’ like a galway girl
