Sadhbh Ní Bhruinneallaigh
Pron. Sive or Sow Nee Vrin-uh-lahSadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla is an old sean-nós song attributed to Labhrás Mac Con Raoi from Mace Head, Co. Mayo, a boatman who ranged the coasts of Mayo and Galway. He is said to have composed it between 1815 and 1821, and the woman in the song is said to have been from Inishkea, Co. Mayo. It is often called “Sadhbh Ní Mhuinghile.” Below are the Irish lyrics and English translation for Liam Ó Maonlaí’s version. This is a classic sean-nós song and is better sung unaccompanied or with simple drone backing. I’ve included a few chords below anyway which should do the trick.
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English
I would ask no dowry for Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
but the village of Inis Gé and a permit to hunt rabbits.
Óra, Sadhbh, Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
My heart's beloved, elope and leave with me.
I'm the master of a húicéir
on the way to Galway,
I'd wet nine sods of turf
but would not take any water in.
Óra, Sadhbh, Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
Give me your wee hand, elope and leave with me.
The master of a hooker I'd never accept,
when the wind is favourable
they are not inclined to stay.
Óra, Sadhbh, Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
Give me your wee hand, elope and leave with me.
Sadhbh is not wearing a stitch on her body,
except an old brown coat
without bodice or sleeve.
Óra, Sadhbh, Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
Give me your wee hand, elope and leave with me.
I'm a good boatman, a fine oarsman,
skillful with shovel or loy on either end of the ridge.
Óra, Sadhbh, Sadhbh Ní Bhruinnealla,
My heart's beloved, elope and leave with me.