Every Irish folk song offers an interesting and unique history, which is just one of the reasons that Michael Daly, Irish tenor, has compiled 17 of the most beloved Irish songs in his popular album Ireland From Glen to Glen. You can enjoy Michael’s version of the popular song “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen”  and more when you go to his website www.michaeldalytenor.com and click on his Ireland From Glen to Glen album.

“I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen” has become a very popular song since it was written by Thomas P. Westendorf in 1875. Interestingly enough, despite being adopted into the Irish heritage, the song does not have a direct link back to Ireland. Westendorf was born in Virginia, and he wrote the song in Plainfield, Illinois for his wife who was visiting her hometown of Ogdensburg, New York. Historians have wondered whether the lyrics of “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen” refer to the Emerald Isle or the green fields of New York state. Regardless, big names like Bing Crosby and Elvis Presley have recorded this song over the years, helping to launch it to such popularity.

The lyrics of “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen” vividly tell the story of a woman who misses her home so much that “The roses all have left your cheek. / I’ve watched them fade away and die / Your voice is sad when e’er you speak / And tears bedim your loving eyes.” Kathleen’s husband sees her homesick heartache and promises in the song to make her happy: “I’ll take you home again, Kathleen / Across the ocean wild and wide / To where your heart has ever been / Since you were first my bonnie bride.” This song ends on a hopeful and joyous note as the singer describes Kathleen’s homecoming: “And when thy old friends welcome thee / Thy loving heart will cease to yearn.”

Over the years, many individuals have described their own experiences living out the story of “I’ll Take You Home Again, Kathleen,” including Michael Daly, who has made many trips back to Ireland to honor his heritage. Listen to his heartwarming Irish Tenor voice sing this touching song on his website, www.michaeldalytenor.com. You can listen to each of the songs on his album and purchase individual songs or the complete album. Enjoy!