Give Ireland Back to the Irish
Wings · Wild Life [1971]
Don't make them have to take it away
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Make Ireland Irish today
Great Britian, you are tremendous
And nobody knows like me
But really, what are you doing
In the land across the sea
Tell me, how would you like it
If on your way to work
You were stopped by Irish soliders
Would you lie down, do nothing
Would you give in, go berserk
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Don't make them have to take it away
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Make Ireland Irish today
Great Britian and all the people
Say that people must be free
And meanwhile, back in Ireland
There's a man who looks like me
And he dreams of god and country
And he's feeling really bad
And he's sitting in a prison
Say, should he lie down, do nothing
Should give in or go mad
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Don't make them have to take it away
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Make Ireland Irish today
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Don't make them have to take it away
Give Ireland back to the Irish
Make Ireland Irish today
Give Ireland Back to the Irish
Give Ireland Back to the Irish stands as a defining track from Wings' 1971 debut album, Wild Life. The song captures the raw energy of the band's early formation, featuring Paul McCartney's distinctive vocals alongside the driving rhythm section that characterized their initial recordings. As a political anthem, the track reflects the turbulent social climate of the era, offering a direct commentary on national identity without relying on complex musical arrangements. It remains a significant song in McCartney's post-Beatles discography, showcasing the group's ability to blend rock instrumentation with topical songwriting. The recording highlights the collaborative spirit of Wings during their formative years, establishing a sonic template that would evolve through subsequent albums like Band on the Run.