Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral (That's an Irish Lullaby)
Hank Locklin · Please Help Me I'm Falling [Bear Family] [1995]
Over in Kelarny many years ago
My mother sang a song to me in tone so sweet and low
Just a simple little bitty in her good old Irish way
And I'd give the world if she could sing that song to me this day.
Too ra loo ra loo ral too ra loo ra loi
Too ra loo ra loo ral hush now don't you cry
Too ra loo ra loo ral too ra loo ra loo loi
Too ra loo ra loo ral that's an Irish lullaby.
Often in dreams I wonder to that cut again
I feel her arms a huggin' me as when she held me then
And I hear her voice a hummin' to me as in days of yore
When she used to rock me fast asleep outside the cabin door.
Too ra loo ra loo ral too ra loo ra loi
Too ra loo ra loo ral hush now don't you cry
Too ra loo ra loo ral too ra loo ra loo loi
Too ra loo ra loo ral that's an Irish lullaby...
Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral (That's an Irish Lullaby)
Hank Locklin's rendition of "Too-Ra-Loo-Ra-Loo-Ral (That's an Irish Lullaby)" stands as a defining example of his signature weeping vocal style. Recorded during a period where Locklin solidified his reputation for emotional depth, the track showcases his ability to transform a traditional folk melody into a poignant country ballad. The song's gentle, lilting rhythm complements Locklin's distinctive falsetto, allowing the narrative of a mother's love to resonate with profound tenderness. This recording highlights the artist's versatility beyond his more famous heartbreak anthems, demonstrating his capacity to handle lighter, melodic material with the same intensity. As part of his extensive discography, the track remains a cherished piece of classic country music, reflecting the genre's enduring connection to folk traditions and storytelling.