The traditions of Irish music evolved separately from the rest of Europe due to its isolation by sea. As such, the songs and even the favored instruments of Ireland are unique, untainted by its neighbors.
Rather than Ireland being influenced by other musical traditions, Irish music spread to the rest of the world. Below are three popular Irish folk songs that were either written by those influenced by Irish music, or traveled with Irish immigrants to become popular in a new land.
Danny Boy (Londonderry Air)
“Danny Boy” is perhaps the most famous of Irish songs. Because of its lyrics revolving around the Irish Diaspora, “Danny Boy" is very popular in Irish communities living outside of Ireland, especially in America, where it is synonymous with Irish-Americans and played to the point of nausea on St. Patrick’s Day.
