9 - Waters Of Tyne (Roud 1364)

I was asked to learn this song by some dear friends before performing it at a concert overlooking the waters of Tyne. This is an entirely unexpected romance, a song that I was introduced to and unexpectedly fell in love with. Sometimes songs take on a life of their own, and this song insisted upon being on this album.

I cannot get to my love if I were to die
For the waters of Tyne run between her and I
And here I must stand with a tear in my eye
Both sighing and sickly, my sweetheart to see

Oh where is the boatman my bonny hinny?
Where is the boatman? Bring him to me.
To ferry me over the Tyne to my hinny
And I will remember the boatman’s money [?]

Oh bring me the boatman and I’ll give you money
And for your trouble rewarded shall be
To ferry me over the Tyne to my hinny
Oh skull her across the rough river to me

I cannot get to my love if I were to die
For the waters of Tyne run between her and I
And here I must stand with a tear in my eye
Both sighing and sickly, my sweetheart to see