Will You Go Lassie Go

“Will You Go Lassie Go”, also known as “The Wild Mountain Thyme”, is a traditional Irish and Scottish folk song with roots deep in the cultural heritage of both countries. While the exact origins of the tune are unclear, it is generally attributed to the 18th or 19th century, with some sources suggesting it was inspired by the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the Irish countryside. The song is often linked to the Irish folk tradition, but it also has strong connections to Scottish music, reflecting the shared cultural influences between the two regions.

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The lyrics of “Will You Go Lassie Go” are typically a love song, in which a person invites a beloved to join them in a journey to the wild, scenic hills, where the two could live in harmony with nature. The song’s romantic and nostalgic tone, combined with its references to the landscape, made it popular in both Irish and Scottish communities. The tune itself is often played in a 6/8 time signature, which gives it a gentle, flowing rhythm that matches the themes of love and nature in the lyrics.

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Although the song’s exact composer remains unknown, some sources credit the Scottish poet and songwriter Francis McPeake (1915-2002) with helping to popularize it in the 20th century, especially through his performances and recordings of the song. The tune gained significant attention in the folk revival movement of the 1960s and has since been performed by numerous artists, including The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, and later, artists like Van Morrison.

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“Will You Go Lassie Go” has been adapted and interpreted in various ways over the years, sometimes with slight variations in lyrics or melody. Despite these adaptations, it has remained a beloved piece of both Irish and Scottish folk music, often sung in sessions, festivals, and performances around the world. It continues to evoke a sense of longing and connection to the land and is considered an iconic folk song in both traditions.

O the summer time has come And the trees are sweetly bloomin’ And the wild mountain thyme Grows around the bloomin’ heather Will ye go Lassie Go?

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Chorus: And we’ll all go together To pull wild mountain thyme All around the bloomin’ heather Will ye go Lassie Go?

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I will build my love a bower (summerhouse) By yon cool crystal fountain And round it I will pile All the wild flowers o’ the mountain Will ye go Lassie Go?

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(chorus) I will range through the wilds And the deep glen sae dreamy And return wi’ their spoils Tae the bower o’ my dearie Will ye go Lassie Go?

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(chorus) If my true love she’ll not come Then I’ll surely find another To pull wild mountain thyme All around the bloomin’ heather Will ye go Lassie Go?