Song and lyrics for singing together on the Camino

[Calimocho]

Several other people have suggested that if someone were to bring a musical instrument on the Camino, they could also bring sheets of paper with song lyrics, so others could sing along. Does anyone have any suggestions for songs that would be good choices for this purpose? Some suggested songs about traveling or going home are: 500 Miles, Home to You (Peasall Sisters), or Miles to Nowhere (Cat Stevens). There are some Irish or Scottish songs with beautiful melodies and interesting stories, such as Wild Mountain Thyme (also called Go Lassie, Go), Star of the County Down and Galway Girl. What do you think of these songs? What other suggestions do you have? How about songs in Spanish, French, or Italian?

 

[Seabird]

When I played my ukulele in the evenings, the songs that generated the most participation were "Let It Be," "Imagine," "Hallelujah" (by Leonard Cohen) and "(Take me Home) Country R0ads." It seemed virtually everyone, whether native English speakers or not, could sing along at least in part. I'll look at my songbook (carried on my tablet) to see what else seemed to be popular.

I could upload music/lyrics if anyone is interested.

 

[Stivandrer]

I have a playlist in my head that starts automatically a couple of times a day. Anything from Salve Maria and Kyries to Irish songs and old Beatles ditties...
I find it soothing to have noone around me and sing out loud.
But if you find an inflatable Uke or a guitar somewhere, please notify me !!

 

[DurhamParish]

This is a good one. Most people know the refrain and enjoy singing it.

The Wind Rover

I've been a wild rover for many's the year,
And I spent all me money on whiskey and beer.
And now I'm returning with gold in great store,
And I never will play the wild rover no more.

Refrain:
And it's no, nay, never,
No, nay, never no more,
Will I play the wild rover,
No, never, no more.

I went into an alehouse I used to frequent,
And I told the landlady my money was spent.
I asked her for credit, she answered me "nay",
Such a custom like yours I can have any day.

Refrain:

So, from out of me pockets I pulled sovereigns bright,
And the landlady's eyes opened wide with delight.
She said I have whiskeys and ales of the best,
And the words that I spoke they were only in jest.

Or an alternate last line to verse 3:
And I’ll take you upstairs and I’ll show you the rest.

Refrain:

I'll go home to me parents, confess what I've done,
And ask them to pardon their prodigal son.
And if they embrace me as oft times before,
Then I never will play the wild rover no more.

Refrain:

 

[JennyH94]

Great thread Calimocho - thank you!

One song that I've found uplifting for decades is "Kyrie Eleison" by Mr Mister. It's an old song, from 1985, and to me feels like a prayer set to music.

It's a good one for the road, especially when a pilgrim might be feeling overwhelmed or sad - it would be a great song to sing out loudly with all your heart walking across the Meseta for example.

The chorus is one of the most joyous choruses I've ever heard in a pop song. The chorus itself can be sung over and over - it's almost a mantra - it's wonderful. It would be very special to have several people all sing this song, and particularly the chorus, out on those ancient and magical paths - what a connection that would be - joyous voices in such a sacred place.

The lyrics to the song are:

The wind blows hard against this mountainside
Across the sea into my soul
It reaches in to where I cannot hide
Setting my feet upon the road
My heart is old it holds my memories
This heart it burns a gem like flame
Somewhere between the soul and soft machine
Is where I find myself again

Chorus -
Kyrie Eleison down the road that I must travel
Kyrie Eleison through the darkness of the night
Kyrie Eleison where I go you will follow
Kyrie Eleison on a highway in the light

When I was young I dreamed of growing old
Of what my life would mean to me
Would I have traveled down my chosen road
Or only wish that I could be

Here's the youtube clip - I hope you enjoy it. A bonus - the 80's fashion will make you smile ...

Cheers - Jenny

 

[KinkyOne]

This one maybe?

 

[C clearly]

This one maybe?

Well, @KinkyOne, that would be a hard act to replicate! But great to attempt!

I always suggest this one for reflection on the meseta or anywhere:

Forever Young, written by Bob Dylan and preferably sung by Joan Baez

May God bless and keep you always
May your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
And may your song always be sung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

 

[KinkyOne]

Well, @KinkyOne, that would be a hard act to replicate! But great to attempt!

I always suggest this one for reflection on the meseta or anywhere:

Forever Young, written by Bob Dylan and preferably sung by Joan Baez

May God bless and keep you always
May your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
And may your song always be sung
May you stay forever young
Forever young, forever young
May you stay forever young.

Let's leave it to Tim, right?

 

[KinkyOne]

Or:

In rememberance for both Leonard and Jeff..........

Hope that song give you something "more", Tim!