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A Drop of Nelson's Blood

from St Patrick's Day by Marc Gunn

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Legend says that after Lord Nelson fell in the Battle of Trafalger, his body was sealed ina cask of rum to preserve it. When the sailors heard of this, they drank their fill. Thus, grog became known as "Nelson's Blood". This walkaway shanty is also known as "Roll the Old Chariot Along" or "Roll the Golden Chariot Along." I arbitrarily chose the later just for the heck of it. The song was also taken up as a hymn for the Salvation Army. The tune is very catchy. Feel free to make up verses as you go. It's great for that.

lyrics

A drop of Nelson's blood wouldn't do us any harm (3x)
And we'll all hang on behind.

So we'll roll the golden chariot along
An' we'll roll the golden chariot along.
So we'll roll the golden chariot along
An' we'll all hang on behind!

A plate of Irish stew wouldn't do us any harm...

A nice fat cook wouldn't do us any harm...

A roll in the clover wouldn't do us any harm...

A long spell in gaol wouldn't do us any harm...

A round on the house wouldn't do us any harm...

A glass of hot whiskey wouldn't do us any harm...

If the devil's in the road, we'll roll it over him...

credits

from St Patrick's Day, released September 17, 2020
words and music traditional

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Marc Gunn Atlanta, Georgia

Marc Gunn is a rhythm and folk musician inspired by Celtic culture, science fiction, fantasy, and cats--Sci F'Irish music.

He breathes new life into the autoharp, which continues to surprise musical veterans and fans alike for its unique sound and spirited energy. It’s like a satirical jam session between The Clancy Brothers and Weird Al Yankovic. ... more

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