The Unicorn

Irish Rovers · 20the Century Masters: Best Of [2003]

A long time ago when the earth was green,

There were more kinds of animals than you've ever seen,

They'd run around free while the earth was being born,

But the loveliest of them all was the Unicorn.



There were green alligators and long necked geese,

Some humpy-back camels and some chimpanzees,

Some cats and rats and elephants, but sure as you're born,

The loveliest of all was the Unicorn.



Now God seen some sinning and it gave Him pain,

And He said "Stand back, I'm going to make it rain."

He said "Hey brother Noah, I'll tell you what to do,

Build me a floating zoo. And take some of them...



Green alligators and long necked geese,

Some humpy-back camels and some chimpanzees,

Some cats and rats and elephants, but sure as you're born,

Don't you forget My Unicorn."

Ole Noah was there to answer the call,

And he finished making the ark just as the rain started to fallin.

He marched in the animals two by two,

And he called out as they went through, "Hey Lord, I got your..."



Green alligators and long necked geese,

Some humpy-back camels and some chimpanzees,

Some cats and rats and elephants, but Lord I'm so forlorn,

I just can't see no Unicorn."



Then Noah looked out through the driving rain,

Them Unicorns were hiding, playing silly games.

Kicking and splashing while the rain was pouring down,

Oh them silly Unicorns.



There were green alligators and long necked geese,

Some humpy-back camels and some chimpanzees,

Noah cried "Close the door, cause the rain is pouring,

And we just can't wait for no Unicorn."



The ark started movin, it drifted with the tide.

Them Unicorns looked up from the rocks and they cried,

And the waters came down and sort of floated them away,

And that's why you'll never seen a Unicorn... to this very day.



You'll see green alligators and long necked geese,

Some humpy-back camels and some chimpanzees,

Some cats and rats and elephants, but sure as you're born,

You're never gonna see no Unicorn.

About The Unicorn

"The Unicorn" by The Irish Rovers stands as a quintessential example of traditional Irish folk music, capturing the whimsical spirit of the genre with its distinctive accordion-driven sound. Recorded for their 2003 compilation *20the Century Masters: Best Of*, the track exemplifies the band's signature style, blending storytelling with lively instrumentation that has made them a staple in the Irish repertoire. The song reflects the enduring appeal of folk traditions, focusing on themes of wonder and adventure without relying on modern production techniques. As part of The Irish Rovers' extensive discography, this recording highlights their ability to preserve and present authentic musical heritage, contributing to the broader landscape of English-language folk music. Its inclusion in a best-of collection underscores its status as a favorite among fans and listeners alike, cementing its place in the cultural memory of Irish song.