O Waly, Waly
Sarah Brightman · Other Songs - Sarah Brightman
And neither have I wings to fly.
Give me a boat that will carry two,
And both shall row, my love and I.
O, down in the meadows the other day,
A-gath'ring flowers both fine and gay,
A-gath'ring flowers both red and blue,
I little thought what love can do.
I leaned my back against some oak
Thinking that he was a trusty tree;
But first he bended, and then he broke,
And so did my false love to me.
A ship there is, and she sails the sea,
She's loaded deep as deep can be,
But not so deep as the love I'm in;
I know not if I sink or swim.
O, love is handsome and love is fine,
And love's a jewel while it is new,
But when it is old, it groweth cold,
And fades away like morning dew.
About O Waly, Waly
Sarah Brightman's "O Waly, Waly" stands as a poignant tribute to the legendary French composer Jacques Offenbach, reflecting her deep commitment to musical history and cross-cultural appreciation. Recorded in English, the track captures the melancholic essence of Offenbach's opera *La Grande Duchesse de Gérolles*, a work that Brightman has frequently revisited throughout her career. The song exemplifies her signature style, blending classical operatic technique with pop sensibilities to create an emotive and accessible interpretation of a 19th-century masterpiece. By focusing on the emotional core of the original composition, Brightman pays homage to the tragic romance at the heart of the opera while showcasing her versatility as a vocalist. This recording highlights her ability to bridge eras and genres, offering listeners a sophisticated yet engaging experience that celebrates both the composer's legacy and her own artistry. The piece remains a testament to her dedication to preserving and performing significant works from the classical repertoire.