Evolution of God Save the King 1745 - 2023 [1K Special] [4K] Imperial Britannia 2026-09-24 | Evolution of God Save the King 1745 - 2023 [1K Special] [4K]
‘Mirie it is While Sumer Ilast’ - English Folk Song [Oldest Surviving English Song] Imperial Britannia 2025-07-18 | ‘Mirie it is While Sumer Ilast’ is a mediaeval English folk song from the beginning of the 1200s written in Middle English, written in the Midlands. The song itself talks about the life during the Summer months, hearing birds, watching the wind and the weather, before criticising the ‘long nights’ and ‘blasting wind’. The song almost certainly had more verses when it was written, but they have been lost. Additionally, the word ‘fast’ isn’t from the original document, as it was damaged. ‘Fast’ is the usual word for rhyming with ilast and blast. Some also use the word ‘wast’ as a better fit pronunciation wise, meaning a poor state in Middle English. The single document only survived being stored in a book with other songs in Old French.This recording was done by ‘St. George’s Canzona’
‘We Are The Boys’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-07-09 | ‘We Are The Boys’ is a British song from the war about being in the army, with satirical memories of missed shots in training or being so scared in combat that they had froze, amongst other things. The origin might be from a ‘Ron East’, the song was apparently documented in Oxfordshire in the early 40s. Recording done by ‘Sods Opera’ in 1995.
‘Something To Sing About’ - Canadian Patriotic Song [Belated Canada Day Special] Imperial Britannia 2025-07-02 | ‘Something To Sing About’ is a Canadian patriotic song written in 1963 by Oscar Brand. The song’s lyrics each describe a different region and province of Canada, from Newfoundland to Victoria, Toronto to Nunavut. The song became very popular and even was a contender to become the first official national anthem of Canada.This recording was done by ‘The Travellers’, unsure of the year.
‘Come On Chaps’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-06-28 | ‘Come On Chaps’ is a humorous song that never sings what seems to be coming up, cutting off lines with implied lyrics by starting new verses. There appears to have been no single author, as many British songs from the war arose as chants or made up songs by soldiers, sailors and everyone else to pass time.This recording is done by ‘Sods Opera’ sometime in the 1990s.
‘Ô Canada, Mon Pays, Mes Amours’ - Canadian Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2025-06-20 | ‘Ô Canada, Mon Pays, Mes Amours’ is a Canadian patriotic song in French written by George-Étienne Cartier in 1834 for the founding of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society, which was created to maintain Quebecois rights and autonomy in Upper and Lower Canada. The songs lyrics refer to the beauty of Canada and the lively atmosphere of its peoples.I’m unsure who sung this recording.
‘Land of Hope and Glory’ - 1941 WW2 Recording Imperial Britannia 2025-06-01 | 'Land of Hope and Glory' is a British patriotic anthem written in 1902 by Arthur Benson, with the music being composed by Edward Elgar in 1901. The song's lyrics about the ever expanding glory of the United Kingdom quickly made it rise to becoming one of the most popular patriotic songs alongside ‘Rule Britannia’ and the like. During the Second World War it had similar fame, being sung by stars like Vera Lynn to boost morale.This recording was done by Jeanette MacDonald in 1941.
‘There’ll Always Be An England’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-05-18 | ‘There'll Always Be An England’ is and was a very popular song from the Second World War, written by Hugh Charles and Ross Parker in 1939, it sings of England, that no matter what may befall her, England shall exist. Recording done by Billy Cotton.
‘See How Cawood’s Dragon Looks’ - English Civil War Song Imperial Britannia 2025-05-09 | ‘See How Cawood’s Dragon Looks’ is an English Civil War song from 1644, written by royalist composer and soldier William Lawes. Cawood is a small village south of the city of York. Lawes would write music for the English court starting the 1630s, eventually joining the King’s army following war in 1642. He wrote this song after the fall of Cawood Castle in the Siege of York by parliamentarian forces. Lawes would die in September of 1645 in battle. He was posthumously named the ‘Father of Music’ by King Charles I.Recording done by ‘The Ebor Singers’ in 2017.
‘Imagine Me In The Maginot Line’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-04-16 | ‘Imagine Me In The Maginot Line’ is a song by George Formby about being a soldier in France on the border with Germany, the Maginot Line. The song is light hearted and cheery, and was immensely popular until the German invasion and the Fall of France, where the song was quickly forgotten. Recording by George Formby.
‘French Royalist Medley’ - ‘Vive Henri IV’ & ‘Vive Le Roi’ Imperial Britannia 2025-04-07 | This lovely medley was sung by Choeur Montjoie Saint Denis, this ‘French Royalist Medley’ is a combination of two separate songs, ‘Vive Henri IV’ from 1604 which served as a semi-official anthem of the Kingdom of France and ‘Vive Le Roi’ from 1815 supporting the return of Louis XVIII and Bourbon rule. Below is the info for both songs.Vive Henri IV:‘Vive Henri IV’ was the national anthem of the Kingdom of France between 1590-1792. Its melody has been played since at least 1581, where it was a Christmas song. In 1589 it appears into a book of dance songs and such by Jehan Tabourot called ‘Orchesographie’. Sometime in the 1590s the tune was refitted in ‘Vive Henri IV’ with the lyrics celebrating King Henry IV and France as a whole. It was used unofficially as the national anthem up until the French Revolution, where it would be refitted into various different songs, including ‘Vive Louis XVI’ a song expressing support for the constitutional monarchy of France, and ‘Meurs Bonaparte’ a song expressing for the death of Napoleon Bonaparte as a tyrant.It returned as the unofficial anthem of France after the house of Bourbon was restored to power in 1814, as ‘Le Retour des Princes français à Paris’ with different lyrics expressing support for,the restoration of Louis XVIII as king of France. It remained until 1830, when the Bourbons were deposed again.Vive Le Roi:'Vive Le Roi' is a French song written in 1814 to celebrate the restoration of the Bourbon Dynasty to the French throne. The song was written by Rouget de Lisle. In 1814 after Napoleon I's reign ended, the brother of Louis XVI, and uncle of Louis XVII, became King of France as Louis XVIII, his reign lasted into early 1815, until Napoleon returned to France from exile and tried to retake the nation, he failed and Louis reigned until his death in 1824, when the French throne passed to his brother Charles.It might be noticeable the lyrics I provide here are different from the ones contained in my ‘Vive Henri IV’ video. I’ve learnt some admittedly mediocre French since then, and tried to edit the English lyrics a bit closer in accuracy to their French counterparts. The ‘Vert Galant’ in the first verse was a nickname for Henri IV for laying with many women despite his age, so ‘womaniser’ isn’t a direct translation, but rather the meaning of the name. The name would be ‘Green Galant’.
‘Run Adolf Run’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-03-28 | ‘Run Adolf Run’ is a song parody of the song ‘Run Rabbit Run’ from 1939 by Noel Gay and Ralph Butler. Following the outbreak of war, the song took on the lyrics of ‘Run Adolf’ as a mockery of Germany, it was a famous song soon enough with the populace. Recording done by Jack Hylthon and Arthur Askey.
1 Hour of British World War 2 Songs [20K Special] Imperial Britannia 2025-03-07 | Time Stamps:0:00 - Intro0:10 - God Save the King (c. 1745, r. 1940)3:07 - Land of Hope and Glory (c. 1902, r. 1941)6:43 - We'll Meet Again (c. 1939)9:44 - The White Cliffs of Dover (c. 1941)12:38 - When They Sound The Last All Clear (c. 1941)16:02 - There'll Always Be An England (c. 1939)19:18 - Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me Goodbye (c. 1939)22:23 - The King Is Still In London (c. 1941)25:21 - My Bomber Lies Over The Ocean (c. 1942)27:12 - The D-Day Dodgers (c. 1944)31:07 - The Ballad Of Wadi Maktilla (c. 1940)34:02 - Tins (c. 1941)36:38 - The Sinking Of The Graf Spee (c. 1939)39:05 - Run Adolf Run (c. 1939)42:35 - We Are The Boys (c. 1939-45)44:52 - I Haven't Seen Old Hitler (c. 1944-45)46:27 - Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major (c. 1939)48:28 - The Washing On The Siegfried Line (c. 1939)51:04 - Come On Chaps (c. 1939-45)52:19 - Out In The Middle East (c. 1942)55:25 - Imagine Me In The Maginot Line (c. 1939)58:14 - Hitler Has Only Got One Ball (c. 1939)59:28 - The Firth of Forth (c. 1939-45)1:01:04 - EndSong Info:‘We'll Meet Again’ by Ross Parker and Hugh Charles is one of the most well known songs from the war. It skyrocketed to fame after Vera Lynn sung the tune. Its lyrics recount hope and optimism for a world after the war. Recording by Vera Lynn.‘There'll Always Be An England’ is a renowned song from the war, by Hugh Charles and Ross Parker, it sings of the vigour of England, no matter what may befall her, England shall exist. Recording by Billy Cotton.‘Wish Me Luck As You Wave Me Goodbye’ by Phil Park & Henry Parr-Davies speaks of soldiers bidding goodbye to their loved ones and friends. It was sung by Gracie Fields during the war. Recording by Elsie Carlisle.‘The Sinking Of The Graf Spee’ recounts the wrecking of the German ship engaged in the Battle of River Plate, 3 British ships attacking it. The origin is unknown. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘Run Adolf Run’ is a parody of ‘Run Rabbit Run’ from 1939 by Noel Gay & Ralph Butler. Following war, it was written with lyrics mocking Hitler. Recording by Jack Hylthon & Arthur Askey.‘Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major’ by Art Noel & Don Pelosi recounts the drunken rambling of a soldier, asking for motherly affection. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘The Washing On The Siegfried Line’ refers to the German defensive line as a line for hanging clothes. It was written by Jimmy Kennedy. Recording done by Leslie Sarony.‘Imagine Me In The Maginot Line’ by George Formby is about being a soldier in France. The song was popular until the Fall of France. Recording by George Formby.‘Hitler Has Only Got One Ball’ is quite self explanatory insulting Nazis, many different versions exist. The origin is unknown. Recording complied by Warren Fahey.‘Come On Chaps’ Is a song that never sings what seems to be coming up. The origin is unknown. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘We Are The Boys’ recounts military life, missing targets, getting scared, amongst other things. It may be by ‘Ron East’, the song was documented in Oxfordshire. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘The Firth of Forth’ was sung by the RAF, notorious for its usage of swearing, it complains about flights, weather and operatives. The origin is unknown. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘The Ballad Of Wadi Maktilla’ is about a battle in Italian Libya east of Sidi Barrani. It was documented by Hamish Henderson while with the 51st. Recording by James Miller, aka Ewan MacColl.‘The King Is Still In London’ by Hugh Charles & Roma Hunte came out after the bombing of Buckingham palace and George VI’s choice to stay. It recounts the King’s actions, feelings and guard. Recording by Benjamin Ambrose.‘When They Sound The Last All Clear’ by Hugh Charles and Louis Elton recounts how the people will reunite and sing in peace after the war, the song would be sung by Vera Lynn too. Recording by Elsie Carlisle.‘Tins’ was sung by soldiers in Iceland, where tins had become common for everything, be it construction or storage. The origin is unknown. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ by Walter Kent & Nat Burton would be sung by Vera Lynn. It recounts the solemnity of war and hope for the future. Recording by Vera Lynn.‘Out In The Middle East’ by George Formby recounts life as a soldier in the Middle East, being around women, unfamiliar food and hot temps. Recording by George himself.‘My Bomber Lies Over The Ocean’ is a parody recounting flight over the Channel looking for enemy ships. It was popular with Squadron 175, who aided in D-Day and liberating the lowlands. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘The D-Day Dodgers’ is about the career of soldiers in Italy, the term made popular by Nancy Astor supposedly, the song became a favourite. An original was by Harry Pynn, many versions exist. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’‘I Haven't Seen Old Hitler’ is a song from the end of the war, when the tide turned against the Germans. The exact origin is unknown. Recording by ‘Sods Opera’
‘Rhyfelgyrch Gwŷr Harlech - Welsh Patriotic Song [Saint Davids Day Special] Imperial Britannia 2025-03-02 | ‘Rhyfelgyrch Gwŷr Harlech' or ‘Men of Harlech’ is a Welsh patriotic song dating back to at least the mid 18th century, with its first publications being in 1794 and 1830, the former a tune and the latter with lyrics. The song is meant to recount the Lancaster hold out in Harlech Castle during the War of the Roses, when Dafydd ap Ieuan unrelentingly didn’t surrender during the seven year siege of the castle by the Yorkists, the most lengthy siege ever in three British Isles.The song became very popular in Wales in the 19th and 20th centuries, with many lyrical versions being made throughout the 1860’s, the first Welsh lyrical version being from then as well. The song would be included in films during the 20th century, such as ‘How Green was My Valley’ or more notably ‘Zulu’.Recording done by the Morriston Orpheus Choir, unsure of the year.
‘Secords Warning’ - Canadian Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2025-02-23 | ‘Secord’s Warning’ is a Canadian patriotic song written in 2004 by Joe Grant recounting the life of Laura Secord. The lyrics first sing of her birth and moving to British Canada before her journey to warn Colonel FitzGibbon of a planned American attack. On the 21st of June 1813 American soldiers were dining in her home speaking about their own surprise offensive, which Secord overhead. As her husband James Secord was injured from fighting in the Battle of Queenston Heights she set off for FitzGibbon’s camp on the 22nd. She then walked 32 kilometres avoiding American troops through swampland to give her warning. She would deliver the message and the smaller force of First Nation and British Canadian soldiers would win the Battle of Beaver Dams against the Americans on the 24th of June.Recording done by the band ‘Tanglefoot’, unsure of the year.
‘Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-02-15 | ‘Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major’ is a British WW2 song first written in 1939 by Art Noel and Don Pelosi. Its lyrics recount a drunken ‘Private Jones’ speaking to his Sergeant as if he was is his mother, asking to be kissed goodnight and tucked into bed. From what I have seen it appears to have been a pretty popular satirical song during the war, some footage is included here of the soldiers singing it themselves near the end.Recording done by the band ‘Sods Opera’, I think around 1995.
‘Land of the Silver Birch’ - Canadian Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2025-01-31 | ‘Land of the Silver Birch’ is a Canadian patriotic song from the early 20th century. It song itself seems not to have been written by one person, and its various recordings all have slightly different verses. It supposedly came about as a folk song sometime in the 1920’s. Its lyrics speak about the landscapes of Canada and the singers longing to return to the Canadian familiarly. Recording done by the Everglades Legacy Choir, unsure of the year.
‘The Firth of Forth’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2025-01-23 | (I have re-uploaded this video with corrected lyrics)‘The Firth of Forth’ is a British WW2 song of unknown origin. The song has no definitive writer or date of origin, from what I have read it seems to have started as just a general song sung by RAF airmen during the war rather than a composition. The lyrics talk about the rather horrid conditions of flying, with damaged aeroplanes, bad weather, cold days. The obvious lyrical consistency is the almost constant usage of the work ‘fuck.’Of note, the second verse sung appears to be an anachronism from the 90’s when the group who sung this specific recording released it. One lyric refers to operations room ‘R30’ which was built in RAF Neatishead in Norfolk in 1972. As for the 269 line, I believe it is referring to No. 269 Squadron RAF, which was stationed in eastern Scotland from 1939 to 1941, initially north of the Firth of Forth in RAF Montrose, and later in RAF Wick in northern Scotland following October of 1939. During the years they were stationed there they would be responsible for flying over the North Sea raiding and attacking prominent targets in Nazi-occupied Norway.Recording done by the band ‘Sods Opera’ in the 90’s.
‘Sir Winston Churchill’ - Trinidad & British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2025-01-06 | ‘Sir Winston Churchill’ is a song praising British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. It was written by Trinidad Egbert Moore (Lord Beginner) sometime between 1955 and the mid 60s. The songs lyrics praise Churchill as a great PM and a beacon of the world for freedom and greatness. The first verse addresses his resignation as prime minister in 1955 and his popular image. The second verse addresses his role during the Second World War, and the triumph of Britain over Germany. The third verse speaks of his childhood, education and jobs. Recording done by Egbert Moore, unsure of the year.
‘The Roast Beef of Old England’ - English Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-12-25 | ‘The Roast Beef of Old England’ is an English patriotic song written in 1732 by Englishman Henry Fielding. The lyrics recount the lives of the English through the ages, that the roast beef makes England mighty, that the people’s ancestors were the ones to triumph over the Spanish Armada and the foes of England. The song would become quite popular in Georgian England, getting more verses and increased attention through the 18th century.Recording done by John Donaldson.
‘Well Meet Again’ - British WW2 Song [Remastered] Imperial Britannia 2024-12-16 | 'We'll Meet Again' is a British patriotic song written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles in 1939. Vera Lynn recorded the song in 1939, and the words of hope within the lyrics led the song's popularity to take off. It became massively known in Britain, the staple war-song, performed at large military gatherings or simply by families dealing with war.Recording done by Vera Lynn, unsure of the year.
‘Hail Caledonia’ - Scottish Patriotic Song [Saint Andrews Day Special] Imperial Britannia 2024-11-30 | ‘Hail Caledonia’ is a Scottish Patriotic song written in 1912 by Hugh Ogilvieby. The name ‘Caledonia’ comes from the Roman Empire, which called all land north of the Antonine Wall and the Forth river based on meeting a tribe in the highlands of Scotland, the ‘Caledonii.’ The songs lyrics recount the beauty of Scotland, and how it calls every Scotsman home as a land of hero’s and gallantry.Recording done by Kenneth McKellar, from an unknown year.
‘Out in the Middle East’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2024-11-27 | ‘Out in the Middle East’ is a British World War 2 song written in 1942 by George Formby, an English songwriter, actor and comedian. The song’s lyrics satirically recount the contents of a letter about the career of a soldier stationed in the allied Middle East, it mentions the people, food, temperature and scenery.Recording done by Formby sometime in the 40s.
‘Hitler has only got one Ball’ - British WW2 Song [Remastered] Imperial Britannia 2024-11-15 | ‘Hitler has only got one Ball’ is a British patriotic song from the Second World War mocking German leadership. It was written in 1939 by an unknown author. The songs lyrics mock prominent figures in Germany, such as Hitler and Himmler. The recording of instrumentals is done by the French republican guard orchestra. The recording of the lyrics is done by Warren Fahey. I put the two in as close of a synchronisation as I can, as the only other recordings of this song with lyrics and instruments I found were notoriously short or a non-usable genre.
‘Twa Recruiting Sergeants’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-11-09 | 'Twa Recruiting Sergeants' is a British patriotic song, a version with lyrics in the Scots languge of the English song 'Over the Hills and Far Away' that was written and rewritten with different lyrics between 1698 and 1719. This version appears close to the latter English versions, with the Scots ‘Through Gibraltar tae France and Spain’ line the same as the English one. Please know that the English translation is a bit semantic.Recording done by the band called ‘Gaberlunzie’
‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’ - British WW1 Song Imperial Britannia 2024-11-05 | ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’ is a British song from World War One by Ivor Novello with lyrics by Lena Guilbert Ford, it was written during 1914 in the first year of the start of the war. Its lyrics recount life at home and wishing farewells to the armed forces as they go off to Europe to battle the Germans.I’m unsure where this recording is from.
‘Bold Nelsons Praise’ - British Napoleonic War Song Imperial Britannia 2024-10-21 | ‘Bold Nelson’s Praise’ is a British patriotic song recounting the naval career of Lord Horatio Nelson and the British triumphs over the French during the Napoleonic era. As for the origin of the lyrics, I could not find the original ballad of the song, seeing sheet music from 1916 and a supposed reference it being in a 1909 collection. The song might have been written anywhere between 1805 and 1916, if anyone has more information please do let me know.A viewer told me this recording was done by Graham Moore in 1995.
‘Canada’ - Canadian Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-10-10 | ‘Canada’ is a Canadian patriotic song writing in 1967 by Robert Gimby. It was written in celebration of the 100 year anniversary of Canadian confederation, the Canadian centennial. The song has two different versions, one in English and one in French, though both versions have verses in the other language. The one shown here is the English one. The lyrics celebrate Canada and make odes to well known French and English songs.Recording done by the ‘Young Canada Singers’ in 1967.
‘I Love you Canada’ - Canadian WW1 Song Imperial Britannia 2024-10-02 | ‘I Love you Canada’ is a Canadian patriotic song written in 1915 during the First World War by Morris Manley and Kenneth McInnis. It recounts life as a soldier in Europe during the war, longing for the pleasures and beauty of the Canadian country. From what I gather the song appeared to be quite popular during the war.I’m unsure who this recording is originally made by, though it does come from the CBC.
‘The Washing on the Siegfried Line’ - British WW2 Song Imperial Britannia 2024-09-26 | ‘The Washing on the Siegfried Line’ is a British patriotic song from the Second World War, written in 1939 by Irishmen James Kennedy. The ‘Siegfried Line’ being a long line of fortifications along the western edge of Germany. The song would become immensely popular and pick up more lyrics and verses as the war progressed. Leslie Sarony and Leslie Holmes would later add another verse beginning with ‘Everybody’s mucking in and doing their job,’. The song is sometimes titled with the words ‘we’re going to hang out’ added.I’m unsure who this recording is originally made by.
‘The Lads in Navy Blue’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-09-16 | ‘The Lads in Navy Blue’ is a British patriotic song written in 1899 by Frank Dean under the pen name Harry Dacre. The lyrics recount the prominence of the British army in music and patriotism over the Royal Navy. The song then recounts the splendour and excellence of the Royal Navy, from the modern 1899 day, to the times of Horatio Nelson during the Napoleonic Wars.Recording done by Harrison Latimer in 1914.
‘Private Tommy Atkins’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-09-06 | ‘Private Tommy Atkins’ is a British Patriotic song written in 1893 by Englishmen Henry Hamilton. ‘Tommy Atkins’ being a term used for all British soldiers. It was used in relation to British soldiers as early as in 1743, though it could be older. In 1815 it started use as the generic name by the war office for infantry soldiers, later being expanded upon. Foreigners and commonwealth countries would call British soldiers ‘tommies’ in the First World War as well.Recording done by Robert Howe, unsure of the year, most likely between 1901 and 1914.
‘Boys in Khaki, Boys in Blue’ - British WW1 Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-28 | ‘Boys in Khaki, Boys in Blue’ is a British patriotic song from the early months of the First World War, the song being played as early as 1914. The lyrics talk about the commitment of British soldiers (who wore khaki) and sailors (who wore blue). It tells of how the force of the combined British Army and Royal Navy could easily defeat anyone who tries to fight or take down the British nation. I’m unsure who this recording is originally made by, only being from 1914.
‘God Bless His Majesty’ - English Royalist Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-20 | 'God Bless His Majesty' is an English royalist song celebrating the restoration of Charles II to the English throne. The song itself has no author, nor title, merely being an anonymous set of lyrics from the 17th century.The restoration took place in 1660 after the dissolution of the Commonwealth of England, a short lived country under the dictatorship of Oliver Cromwell. Charles II's return marked the reestablishment of the monarchy.The song itself refers to loyalty to the returned King. The lyrics ‘although thy stocking be made of silk, thy knee shall touch the ground’ expressing kneeling to the monarch despite any fancy dressings or so societal class. It also calls for the victory of King Charles over his enemies, if they give their ‘all or none’ when going against him.Recording done by the band ‘Strawhead’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-17 | ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’ is a British patriotic song originally written in 1912 by Jack Judge and Harry Williams. It tells of a soldier in London feeling longing for his home and familiarity. The song would have a monumental increase in popularity during the First World War. Many recordings and performances of the song would appear all across the the British Empire, and around the world, with versions being made by the Americans, French, among others. Tipperary would become synonymous with ‘home’ in a way for many soldiers from all different places.Recording done by John McCormack in 1914, I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Exaltation of King James’ - English Royalist Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-16 | 'Exaltation of King James' is an English royalist song celebrating King James II's reign. The song does appear to have written during his reign, as it’s in a few 17th century songbooks. James, who reigned over England and Scotland from 1685 to 1688, attempted to increase the power of the monarchy and grant religious freedom to Catholics. His reign ultimately led to his dethroning in 1688. His Anglican daughter Mary and her husband would take the thrones of England and Scotland as Mary II and William III.Recording done by the band ‘Strawhead’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Soldiers of the King’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-11 | ‘Soldiers of the King’ is a British Patriotic song originally written in 1893 by Leslie Stuart, it was sung as ‘Soldiers of the Queen’ until the death of Queen Victoria in 1901, where it would be sung as ‘King’ for the first time. The song would see increased popularity throughout both world wars in Britain, The Empire, and the future Commonwealth. The song returned to its original lyrics upon the death of George VI and the beginning of Elizabeth II’s reign. King Charles III’s ascension is the first time since 1952 it’s sung to the King. I apologise the recording is so old, a new one hasn’t been made. I’m unsure where it’s originally from.
‘The Wagon Loafers’ - British Boer War Song Imperial Britannia 2024-08-03 | ‘The Wagon Loafers’ is a British patriotic song from the late 19th century about life as a ‘wagon loafer’ during the war. The song seems to be from the Second Boer War (1899 - 1902). It recounts driving cape carts, which were a type of South African carriage used for travelling over rough terrain during the war.The melody and chorus of the song however, was originally sung in the states during the American Civil War (1861 - 1865) as marching songs for the US side, it’s most popular versions being ‘John Brown’s Body’ and ‘Battle Hymn of the Republic’ Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Colonel Burnaby’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-25 | ‘Colonel Burnaby’ is a British patriotic song about the Mahdist War and the death of Colonel Frederick Burnaby in the battle of Abu Klea. The Mahdist War began in 1881 as a rebellion against the Egyptian government in the region by native Sudanese people. When the British brought Egypt into their sphere of influence in 1882, they joined the Egyptians against the Mahdists. Originally planned, was for the British army to help withdraw Egyptian troops and civilians from the Sudan, to leave Sudan with a native government. The British officer in charge, Charles Gordon, was remaining in the city of Khartoum until all Egyptians could safely leave for Egypt when the Mahdists surrounded the city in March of 1884. In October of 1884, a relief force was sent to Egypt to help break the siege in Khartoum, Frederick Burnaby was part of the force. In mid January of 1885, a British force of 1400 fought against a Mahdist force ten times larger in the battle of Abu Klea. Colonel Burnaby would die in the battle whilst fighting a Mahdist hand to hand, and the British would win the battle.The force would later arrive at Khartoum on the 28th, finding that the city had already been lost, with Gordon and many others killed. Most major action mostly would fade in 1885, with small battles and expeditions happening up to 1889. It wouldn’t be until 1896 when an Anglo-Egyptian force would return to the Sudan and end the Mahdist state, reasserting Egyptian rule.Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Brave Lord Willoughby’ - English Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-15 | ‘Brave Lord Willoughby’ is an English Patriotic song about Peregrine Bertie, ‘Lord Willoughby’ and his military service in the lowlands during the 1580s. He was general over the English army in the Low Countries during much of the Anglo Spanish War, seeing many battles and sieges throughout his career. The song seemingly references the Siege of Bergen, a decisive English and Dutch victory over the Spanish in 1588 in which Peregrine headed the English forces. An outnumbered Anglo-Dutch army defeated a Spanish force four times larger. The original ballad of the song states how the Englishmen killed ‘Five thousand Spaniards’ and its title refers to the Spanish army being forty thousand men, yet it could just be 16th century exaggeration, as many ballads did. Bergen ended with 1000 Spanish casualties, and almost none on the English side, it seems the most plausible.He would further fight in the French Wars of Religion in 1590, fighting alongside French Protestants and Henri IV of France before he converted to Catholicism in the siege of Paris. His last years in military service would be in the late 1590’s, being appointed on the Anglo-Scottish border. He would die there in 1601.The song itself seems to not have a definitive date of origin, to my knowledge. I think I found the original publication, a ballad in early modern English matching the same style as other Elizabethan songs, yet it is undated. It’s listed as published for ‘W.O.’ I haven’t a clue of who the initials might belong to. Recording done by the band ‘Peasants All’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Vive Henri IV’ - National Anthem of the Kingdom of France [Bastille Day Special] Imperial Britannia 2024-07-14 | ‘Vive Henri IV’ was the national anthem of the Kingdom of France between 1590-1792. It’s melody has been played since at least 1581, were it was a Christmas song. In 1589 it appears into a book of dance songs and such by Jehan Tabourot called ‘Orchesographie’. The tune was refitted in ‘Vive Henri IV’ with the lyrics of the first verse appearing in 1604, celebrating King Henry IV. The song wouldn’t pick up 3 more verses until 1770, them being published in. 1774. It was used unofficially as the national anthem up until the French Revolution, where it would be refitted into various different songs, including ‘Vive Louis XVI’ a song expressing support for the constitutional monarchy of France, and ‘Meurs Bonaparte’ a song expressing for the death of Napoleon Bonaparte as a tyrant.It returned as the unofficial anthem of France after the house of Bourbon was restored to power in 1814, as ‘Le Retour des Princes français à Paris’ with different lyrics expressing support for,the restoration of Louis XVIII as king of France. It remained until 1830, when the Bourbons were deposed again.I’m unsure where this recording is originally from.
‘Drake Goes West’ - English Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-10 | ‘Drake Goes West’ is an English Patriotic song by Patrick O’Reilly first published in 1910. It recounts the life and expeditions of Sir Francis Drake as a privateer for the English crown in the Elizabethan era. The ‘Spanish Main’ mentioned is the Spanish colonial empire in the Americas, New Spain and Peru, where Drake would raid and battle against Spanish forts and ships.Recording done by Peter Dawson, I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Britons, Strike Home’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-03 | ‘Britons Strike Home’ is a British patriotic song originally written in 1695 by Henry Purcell. It was for a theatrical production about Queen Boudicca of the Iceni. Originally intended as a rallying cry for Britons against the romans in the threatre, yet the song became popular as a patriotic song itself. With the song being sung in naval and land battles all the way up to the 19th century in the battle of Trafalgar. The song was revived during the Napoleonic wars, gaining new lyrics and verses in 1805, singing of protecting freedom and Britain from Frenchmen and tyranny. The version here has the original 1695 lyrics.Recording done by the English Chamber Orchestra, I don’t own the music in any way.
‘We Be Soldiers Three’ - English Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-02 | ‘We Be Soldiers Three’ is an English Patriotic song of unknown origin. Its earliest known publication is in 1609, in a song book subtitled as a group of ‘Delightful Catches’ ‘Freeman songs’ and ‘King Henry’s Mirth’. It could originate from between King Henry VIII’s ascension in 1509 to the book’s publication date in 1609,The lyrics refer to English soldiers in the Low Countries, which could be countless wars given the wide time period of its origin. It most likely is referring to the 80 years war, fought in the late 16th and early 17th centuries between the Dutch and Spanish, where Queen Elizabeth I silently helped the Dutch and tried to undermine Spanish control. Additionally, many English mercenaries also were involved in the conflict.The song itself refers to life and work as a mercenary, never having enough money, and needing to seek out jobs, going to continental Europe. It also has a recurring line in French, meaning ‘Pardon me, please do.’ Which was said rudely, in order to start fights. Recording done by Alfred Deller and some unnamed other singers, I don’t own the music in any way.
‘How Stands the Glass Around’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-07-01 | ‘How Stands the Glass Around’ is a British patriotic song from 1729 referring to the hard life as a soldier in the British army during the period, surrounded by constant danger and still working. It talks about forgetting fear and sorrow by drinking and partying with woman and such. Its lyrics seem to say that despite being able to be killed or injured in war, the current moments are filled with happiness and alcohol.The song became immensely popular in the closing years of the 7 years war, with General James Wolfe singing the song before fighting in the battle of Quebec in 1759, dying whilst doing so. After his death it picked up the alternative title of ‘General Wolfe’s Song’ and was sung by British soldiers into the late 18th century.Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Bang Upon the Big Drum’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-06-24 | ‘Bang Upon the Big Drum’ is a British patriotic song written in the late 19th century about the 2nd Anglo-Afghan war. It mentions life as a British soldier, leaving England to go fight in India and subduing the Afghans, and occupying Afghanistan’s capital and the ‘Bala Hisar’.Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘One and All’ - British Napoleonic War Song Imperial Britannia 2024-06-16 | ‘One and All’ is a British Patriotic song written in 1811 by Bridges Willyams, a colonel who lead a Cornish regiment to serve in Ireland during the Napoleonic Wars. They served in Ireland defending the island from potential invasion by Napoleon. It talks of Irishmen and Englishmen fighting together to defend their family and King.Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘Ye Madcaps of England’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-06-15 | ‘Ye Madcaps of England’ is a British song recounting the life as a soldier in the 18th century. It was first published in a songbook in 1720. It tells of life in the British army, leaving from British lands to fight in wars and hunt animals. It also jokes about the pay of soldiers compared to their service during wartime and such within a few verses.Recording done by the band ‘The Druids’ I don’t own the music in any way.
The Girl I Left Behind Me - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-06-09 | ‘The Girl I Left Behind Me’ is a British Patriotic song dating back to at least the 18th century, if not the 16th. It remarks of the life of a soldier longing to return to his girl, asking God to help him return from war safely to his home. It was mostly played when soldiers left for wars or to the colonies of Britain. The song was fairly popular, picking up different verses in each era it was sung in, as recent as in World War 1, with it being sung insulting the German Kaiser. It’s less popular now, but still a well known piece of music.Recording done by the choir ‘Cambridge Singers’ I don’t own the music in any way.
The Queen at Tilsburie - English Royalist Song Imperial Britannia 2024-05-31 | ‘The Queen at Tilsburie’ is an English Royalist song written by Thomas Delony in August of 1588. The song recounts the visit of Queen Elizabeth I to the men at Tilbury and her famous speech to the army. It also describes other events of the Anglo-Spanish war, such as the Spanish Armada and the English navy, along with other soldiers and officers. The song also seems to have been written within a few hours of the Queens visit itself.Recording done by the band ‘Peasants All’ I don’t own the music in any way.
‘From Scourging Rebellion’ - British Patriotic Song Imperial Britannia 2024-05-25 | ‘From Scourging Rebellion’ is a British patriotic song written by George Friedrich Handel from 1746. The song refers to the British army, led by Prince William, youngest son of King George II. William lead the British to destroy the Jacobite army in the Battle of Culloden in 1746, killing six times as many Jacobites as his own army experienced. During the aftermath, various raids and executions were carried out by his army in Scotland against Catholic and Jacobite remnants. I’m unsure where this recording is originally form.
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