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play midi Barry Taylor |
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| This ballad is based on a similar song, Green
Grows the Laurel, that was popular in 17th century Scotland. The
American ballad tells the story of an American soldier's love for a
Mexican lass. Though I don't have the words for the earlier version, it
evidently had a similar theme, albeit with different
nationalities.
There are countless versions of the song, I have included only two. One story of the songs origin speculates that Cowboys in South Texas loved to sing the song. Across the way, Mexicans, who could not understand the words, could only hear "GREEN GROW". So white Americans became known as "Gringo" by the Mexicans. However, other scholars date the term to the incursion of American troops in Mexico to search for Pancho Villa. |
Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew I'm lonely, my darling, since parting with you; But by our next meeting I'll hope to prove true And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue. Green grow the lilacs reminding me of The ones that I brought you with all of my love, The gates of my country will open for you And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue. Green grow the lilacs, Your favorite flow'r, So sweetly perfuming - a sad parting hour. Oh send me a message - That you love me too, Let's change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue. Repeat first verse. |