Bonnie Wee Lassie

Burl Ives · 51 Great Performances [2006]

Burl Ives - Bonnie Wee Lassie



I come tae a cross and I met a wee lass

Said I, "Ma wee lass, are ye willin' tae go

Tak' share o' a gill?" She cried, "Sir I will

For i'm the wee lassie who never said no"



So intae an alehoose we merrily did go

And we never did rise till the cock it did crow

And it's glass after glass we merrily did toss

Tae the bonnie wee lassie who never said no



Thge landlady opened the door and come in

She opened the door and came in with a smile

And she's lifted a chair wi' freedom and air

"Here's a health tae the lass that can jigget in style"



Well, the drink they took in, being the best o' the gin

Me bein' myself and sober tae view

And it's glass after glass they merrily did toss

Till the lass and the landlady filled theirsel's fu'



"Look intae yon pocket," the lassie she said

"You are two and six for tae pay for your bed

And for laying me doon you owe me a crown

Look intae your pocket," the lassie she said



Put my hand in her pocket and five pound I took

Thinks I tae myself, "I will bundle and go"

And I bade her goodbye, but she made no reply

This bonnie wee lassie who never said no



sung by Jeannie Robertson

recorded by Ray Fisher

Bonnie Wee Lassie

Bonnie Wee Lassie stands as a testament to Burl Ives' enduring mastery of traditional English folk music. Known for his rich, resonant baritone and storytelling prowess, Ives brought a distinctive warmth to countless ballads throughout his prolific career. This recording captures his ability to convey the narrative depth and emotional resonance inherent in classic folk traditions. While Ives achieved widespread fame through film soundtracks and holiday classics, his dedication to preserving regional songs remains a cornerstone of his discography. The track exemplifies the genre's focus on lyrical storytelling and melodic simplicity, showcasing Ives' skill in interpreting material that has resonated with audiences for generations. His work continues to influence performers who value the authenticity and historical weight of folk repertoire.