Peggy Gordon

Although there are many versions of this song by Scottish, Irish, and even English artists, the well-known Peggy Gordon seems to have originated in Canada - specifically in the singing traditions of Nova Scotia. There are strong connections to many other songs in the tradition - The Water is Wide, Keg of Brandy, and others. Here’s a great version from the BBC’s Blas Ceoil by Malachi Cush and Deirdre Bonner.

Peggy Gordon

O Peggy Gordon, You are my darling
Come sit you down upon my knee
And tell to me the very reason
Why I am slighted so by thee

I am so deep in love that I can’t deny it
My heart lies smothered in my breast
But it’s not for you to let the whole world know it
A troubled mind can find no rest

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Keg of Brandy

A lively version of this song. Robbie O’Connell’s version is probably better known, but I really like this arrangement from Síocháin.

I’m always drunk and I’m seldom sober
I’m constant rovin’ from town to town
Ah, but I’m old now, my sporting’s over
So, Molly, a stór, won’t you lay me down

Just lay my head on a keg of brandy
It is my fancy, I do declare
For while I’m drinkin’, I’m always thinkin’
On lovely Molly from the County Clare

For the ripest apple is the soonest rotten
And the warmest love is the soonest cold
And a young man’s fancy is soon forgotten
So beware young maids and don’t make so bold

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