Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya
Dropkick Murphys · Live On Landsdowne Boston, Ma [2010]
Hurroo Hurroo
When on the road to sweet Athy,
Hurroo Hurroo
When on the road to sweet Athy
A stick in the hand, A drop in the eye
A doleful damsel I heard cry
Johnny I hardly knew ya
Where are the eyes that looked so mild,
Hurroo Hurroo
Where are the eyes that looked so mild,
Hurroo Hurroo
Where are the eyes that looked so mild
When my poor heart you first beguiled
Why did ya run from me and the child
Johnny I hardly knew ya
[Chorus:]
We had guns and drums and drums and guns,
Hurroo Hurroo
We had guns and drums and drums and guns,
Hurroo Hurroo
We had guns and drums and drums and guns
The enemy never slew ya
Johnny I hardly knew ya
Where are the legs with which you run,
Hurroo Hurroo
Where are the legs with which you run,
Hurroo Hurroo
Where are the legs with which you run,
When first you went to carry a gun
Indeed your dancing days are done
Johnny I hardly knew ya
[Chorus]
You hadn't an arm, you hadn't a leg,
Hurroo Hurroo
You hadn't an arm, you hadn't a leg,
Hurroo Hurroo
You hadn't an arm, you hadn't a leg
You're a spinless, boneless, chickenless egg
You'll Have to be put with the bowl to beg
Johnny I hardly knew ya
[Chorus]
I'm happy for to see ya home,
Hurroo Hurroo
I'm happy for to see ya home,
Hurroo Hurroo
I'm happy for to see ya home
From the isle of Ceylon
Johnny I hardly knew ya
[Chorus]
Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya
Dropkick Murphys delivers an energetic rendition of the classic punk anthem "Johnny, I Hardly Knew Ya" on their live recording from Landsdowne, Massachusetts. This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of traditional punk rock and Irish folk instrumentation, featuring driving steel drums and rhythmic fiddle work that defines their sound. Originally recorded by The Ramones in 1976, the song has become a staple of punk history, yet the Dropkick Murphys version captures the raw, high-octane spirit of their live performances. The recording showcases the group's ability to reinterpret well-known material with their unique stylistic approach, maintaining the song's rebellious energy while infusing it with their distinct musical identity. It stands as a testament to their skill in blending historical punk references with their own creative voice.