“Frost Is All Over” is a cheerful and lively traditional Irish tune that has been a favorite in music sessions for generations. With its playful melody and lighthearted lyrics, the song captures a sense of warmth and camaraderie, even as it references the chill of winter. Often sung or played as part of a larger set of jigs, Frost Is All Over embodies the spirit of Irish folk music, bringing people together through its infectious rhythm and timeless charm. It remains a popular choice among musicians and audiences alike, celebrated for its uplifting and jovial energy.
Frost Is All Over
Key
D Maj.
Tune Type
Jig
History
“Frost Is All Over” is a traditional Irish folk tune with roots that trace back to the 18th or 19th century. While its exact origins remain unclear, the tune is widely recognized as a lively jig, commonly performed in Irish music sessions. Its cheerful and energetic melody has made it a favorite among musicians, and it is often paired with other jigs in medleys to create dynamic and engaging performances.
.The lyrics, when sung, reflect a playful, lighthearted tone, with themes of enduring the cold and celebrating life despite the frost. This juxtaposition of warmth and cheer against a wintry backdrop resonates with the resilience and humor often found in Irish folk traditions. The tune’s simplicity and catchy rhythm have contributed to its longevity, allowing it to be easily passed down through oral tradition.
.“Frost Is All Over” gained greater recognition during the folk revival of the 20th century, when traditional Irish music saw a resurgence in popularity. It has since been recorded by notable artists, including The Chieftains and Planxty, who helped bring it to wider audiences. While primarily known as an instrumental jig, the tune is sometimes performed with lyrics, depending on the setting or the musicians’ preference.
.Today, “Frost Is All Over” continues to be a staple in Irish music sessions around the world, cherished for its bright, uplifting energy and its ability to bring musicians and listeners together in a shared moment of joy. Its enduring presence in the Irish folk repertoire speaks to its universal appeal and its role in celebrating the traditions of Irish music.
Also Known As
- The Praties Are Dug
- Here’s a Health to the Company
Lyrics
What would you do if the kettle boiled over?
What would I do but to fill it again
What would you do if the cows eat the clover?
What would I do but to set it again
The praties are dug and the frost is all over
Kitty lie over close to the wall
How would you like to be married to a solider?
Kitty lie over close to the wall
.What would you do if you married a solider? What would I do only follow his gun What would you do if he died on the ocean? What would I do only marry again The praties all boil and the herrings are roasted Kitty lie over close to the wall You to be drunk and I to be sober Kitty lie over close to the wall
.What would you do if the kettle boiled over? What would I do but to fill it again What would you do if the cows eat the clover? What would I do but to set it again The praties are dug and the frost is all over Kitty lie over close to the wall How would you like to be married to a solider? Kitty lie over close to the wall
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