Lesson # 3

In this video we take a look at the chords, strumming pattern and melody line for 'The Fields of Athenry'.

"The Fields of Athenry" is a beloved Irish ballad that has become a symbol of Irish resilience in the face of adversity. The song tells the story of a man named Michael from outside Athenry, County Galway who has been sentenced to transportation to an Australia penal colony for stealing corn to feed his starving family during the Great Famine of the 1840's in Ireland. The lyrics evoke the despair and hardship experienced by the Irish people during this time, as well as the hope and determination to survive in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The song was written by Pete St. John in the 1970s and has since become a classic in Irish folk music. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, including Irish legends such as The Dubliners, Christy Moore, and Sinéad O'Connor, as well as international stars such as Bruce Springsteen and Dropkick Murphys. Paddy Reilly's recording is probably best known.

"The Fields of Athenry" has become more than just a song; it is a symbol of Irish identity and a testament to the resilience of the Irish people. It has been sung at sporting events, political rallies, and commemorative ceremonies, and has become a beloved anthem for the Irish diaspora around the world. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of music to unite people in their shared experiences of struggle, loss, and hope.