Traditional Celtic ballad Probably one of the most famous english folk songs, also known as 'Once I Had A Sweetheart', and has been a favourite of mine since I started guitar exercises in the 70s. However, the guitar is not dominating in this version; I tried to create a more common medieval atmosphere.
Versions - Different performances of the song by the same artist
Compilations - Other albums which feature this performance of the song
Covers - Performances of a song with the same name by different artists
Song Title
Versions
Compilations
Covers
Green Lilacs
Notes
======== Lyrics
Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew
I'm lonely, my darling, since parting with you
My heart is still bleeding, my love is still true
To change the green lilacs to the red, white and blue
Last night in deep slumber I dreamed I did see
Last night in deep slumber I dreamed I did see
My own precious jewel sat smiling by me
My own precious jewel sat smiling by me
And when I awakened I found it not so
And when I awakened I found it not so
My eyes like some fountains with tears overflow
My eyes like some fountains with tears overflow
Once I had a sweetheart and now I have none
Once I had a sweetheart and now I have none
She's gone and leave me, She's gone and leave me
Gone and leave me to sorrow and moan
I wrote love letters in rosy red lines
She sent me an answer all twisted in twines
Saying "Keep your love letters and I will keep mine
You write to your sweetheart and I'll write to mine"
I passed my love's window, both early and late
The look that she gave me, it makes my heart ache
Oh the look that she gave me was painful to see
For she loves another one better than me
Once I had a sweetheart, but now I have none
She's gone and leave me, I care not for one
Since she's gone and leave me, contented I'll be
For she loves another one better than me
I ventured through England, through France and through Spain
I ventured through England, through France and through Spain
All my life I will venture the watery main
All my life I will venture the watery main
Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew
I'm lonely, my darling, since parting with you
My heart is still bleeding, my love is still true
To change the green lilacs to the red, white and blue
Change the green lilacs to the red, white and blue