Drunken Sailor Sea Shanty

Background

​The Drunken Sailor is a traditional sea shanty that dates back to the 1830s or earlier. It was commonly sung aboard sailing ships and features various suggestions for dealing with a drunken sailor.

The song typically poses the question, "What shall we do with a drunken sailor, early in the morning?" Each verse suggests different humorous or absurd methods for dealing with the drunken sailor. Common suggestions include: put him in the longboat and make him bail her, shave his belly with a rusty razor and put him in the scupper with a hosepipe on him.

The melody of "Drunken Sailor" is believed to be derived from an Irish tune called "Oró Sé do Bheatha 'Bhaile," which translates to "Óró, you are welcome home." The song is performed in the Dorian mode, contributing to its lively and catchy nature.

Drunken Sailor has been revived in the 20th century and is frequently performed by various artists, including the Irish Rovers, who have made it a staple of their performances. The song has appeared in numerous adaptations and has been featured in popular culture, solidifying its status as a beloved sea shanty.