The Lonely Goatherd
Harry Connick Jr. · Other Songs - Harry Connick Jr.
Loud was the voice of the lonely goatherd
Folks in a town that was quite remote heard
Lusty and clear from the goatherd's throat heard
O ho lay dee odl lee o, o ho lay dee odl ay
O ho lay dee odl lee o, lay dee odl lee o lay
A prince on the bridge of a castle moat heard
Men on a road with a load to tote heard
Ooh, all men in the midst of a table d'hote heard
Men drinking beer with the foam afloat heard
O ho lay dee odl lee o, o ho lay dee odl ay
O ho lay dee odl lee o, lay dee odl lee o lay
One little girl in the pale pink coat heard
She yodeled back to the lonely goatherd
Soon her mama with the gleaming gloat heard
What a duet for a girl and goatherd
Lay ee odl lay ee odl lay hoo hoo
Happy are they lay dee olay dee lee o
Soon the duet will become a trio
Odl lay ee, old lay ee
Odl lay ee, odl lay ee
Odl lay ee, old lay ee
Odl lay ee
About The Lonely Goatherd
Harry Connick Jr.'s "The Lonely Goatherd" stands as a poignant example of his mastery over the standards repertoire, blending jazz sensibilities with a warm, accessible pop sensibility. Recorded during a period where Connick expanded his catalog beyond his film and television work, the track showcases his signature ability to convey deep emotion through subtle phrasing and melodic nuance. The composition, often associated with the whimsical yet melancholic tone of its title, reflects the artist's commitment to interpreting classic material with a fresh, contemporary voice. By weaving together elements of swing and balladry, Connick transforms the song into a timeless piece that highlights his versatility as both a vocalist and a musician. This recording remains a testament to his dedication to the art of musical storytelling, capturing the quiet solitude suggested by the goatherd metaphor without relying on literal narrative.