I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen
Bing Crosby · Other Songs - Bing Crosby
Across the ocean wild and wide
To where your heart has ever been
Since first you were my Bonnie bride.
The roses all have left your cheek.
I've watched them fade away and die
Your voice is sad when e'er you speak
And tears bedim your loving eyes.
Oh! I will take you back, Kathleen
To where your heart will feel no pain
And when the fields are fresh and green
I'll take you to your home again!
I know you love me, Kathleen, dear
Your heart was ever fond and true.
I always feel when you are near
That life holds nothing dear, but you.
The smiles that once you gave to me
I scarcely ever see them now
Though many, many times I see
A dark'ning shadow on your brow.
Oh! I will take you back, Kathleen
To where your heart will feel no pain
And when the fields are fresh and green
I'll take you to your home again!
To that dear home beyond the sea
My Kathleen shall again return.
And when thy old friends welcome thee
Thy loving heart will cease to yearn.
Where laughs the little silver stream
Beside your mother's humble cot
And brightest rays of sunshine gleam
There all your grief will be forgot.
Oh! I will take you back, Kathleen
To where your heart will feel no pain
And when the fields are fresh and green
I'll take you to your home again!
I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen
Bing Crosby's rendition of 'I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery in the romantic ballad genre. Recorded during the golden age of radio and early television, the track exemplifies Crosby's signature vocal style, characterized by its warm, intimate delivery and gentle phrasing that drew audiences into the emotional core of the song. As one of his most enduring recordings, it became a staple of holiday and Christmas music, often associated with the 'Kathleen' ballad tradition that celebrated longing and reunion. The song's enduring popularity reflects Crosby's ability to craft personal, narrative-driven performances that resonated deeply with listeners across generations, cementing his status as a leading figure in American pop and vocal music history.