Kilgary Mountain

Burl Ives · Songs of Ireland [1958]

Burl Ives - Kilgary Mountain



As I was a goin' over Kilgary mountain

I met colonel Pepper and his money he was countin'

I rattled me pistols and I drew forth my saber

Sayin' "Stand and deliver, for I am the bold deceiver"



Musha rig um du rum da

Wack fol the daddy-o

Wack fol the daddy-o

There's whiskey in the jar



The shinin' golden coins did look so bright and jolly

I took 'em to me home and I gave 'em to me Molly

She vowed and she promised that she never would deceive me

But the devil's in the women and they never can be easy



Musha rig um du rum da

Wack fol the daddy-o

Wack fol the daddy-o

There's whiskey in the jar



When I was awakened between six and seven

The guards were all around me in numbers odd and even

I flew for me pistols but alas I was mistaken

For Molly's drawn my pistols and a prisoner I was taken



Musha rig um du rum da

Wack fol the daddy-o

Wack fol the daddy-o

There's whiskey in the jar



They put me in jail without judge or writin'

For robbing Colonel Pepper on that Kilgary Mountain

But they didn't take my fists so I knocked that sentry down

And bid a fond farewell to that jail in Sligo town



Musha rig um du rum da

Wack fol the daddy-o

Wack fol the daddy-o

There's whiskey in the jar



Now some take delight in fishin' and bowlin'

While others take delight in their carriages a-rollin'

But I take delight in the juice of the barley

And courting' pretty girls in the morning so early



Musha rig um du rum da

Wack fol the daddy-o

Wack fol the daddy-o

There's whiskey in the jar

Kilgary Mountain

Burl Ives was a defining figure in American folk and children's music, known for his deep, resonant baritone and storytelling approach to song. His 1958 album Songs of Ireland captures his affinity for traditional ballads and Celtic themes, presenting a collection of recordings that highlight his versatility beyond his famous holiday hits. Kilgary Mountain stands as a representative track from this era, showcasing Ives's ability to interpret regional narratives with warmth and clarity. The recording reflects his broader discography, which spans from Appalachian folk traditions to international standards. Ives's work on this album demonstrates his commitment to preserving and popularizing folk material, ensuring that songs from various cultural backgrounds reached a wide audience through his distinctive vocal style and engaging delivery.