"Miss McLeod's Reel" has been popular in both Ireland and Scotland since the late 1700s. Its A and B sections seem to be reversible and, since Paul won the coin toss, we are playing a typical Scottish version, which starts with what most Irish versions would assume to be the B section. After migrating to America, the tune was adapted for the song known in old-time circles as "Hop High Ladies" or "Uncle Joe."

"I Will Go" was translated and adapted from an old Gaelic poem by the late Scottish actor and singer Roddy McMillan. McMillan's adaptation is assumed by most to be referring to the period following the Battle of Culloden (1745) during which most elements of Highland culture (i.e. language, dress and music) were proscribed. However, if they joined England's newly formed Highland regiments, Scotsmen were once more able to wear the kilt and play the bagpipes. Tragically, while the Highland regiments were serving with distinction in the foreign wars, their lands and homes were being seized during the notorious Highland Clearances. *Used by permission of Lochside Publishers, Angus, Scotland.

Lyrics

Chorus: I will go, I will go, when the fighting is over
To the land of McLeod that I left to be a soldier,
I will go, I will go.

When the King's son came around, he called us all together,
Saying, "Brave Highland men, will ye fight for my father?"
I will go, I will go

I've a buckle on my belt, a sword in my scabbard,
A red coat on my back and a shilling in my pocket,
I will go, I will go.

When they put us all on board, the lasses were singing
But the tears came to their eyes when they heard the bells a-ringing
I will go, I will go.

When we landed on the shore and saw the foreign heather,
We knew that some would fall and be staying there forever,
I will go, I will go.

When we came back to the glen, the winter was turning,
Our goods lay in the snow and our houses were burning.
I will go, I will go.