Drunken Sailor Lyrics: Find The Song On YouTube
Ahoy there, mateys! Ever found yourself humming a catchy tune but only knowing a few lines? Chances are, you've stumbled upon the timeless sea shanty, "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" This rollicking song has been a favorite for generations, sung by sailors, landlubbers, and everyone in between. If you're curious about the full lyrics and want to sing along, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the history and words of this classic tune and point you towards some great YouTube versions to get you started.
The History of the Drunken Sailor Song
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" isn't just a fun song; it's steeped in maritime tradition. Sea shanties, like this one, were work songs sung aboard ships to coordinate tasks such as hoisting sails or weighing anchor. The rhythm and call-and-response format helped sailors synchronize their efforts, making hard labor a bit more bearable. While the exact origins of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" are murky, it's believed to have emerged in the 19th century, possibly originating in the British Royal Navy or the American merchant fleet. The song's verses offer a variety of humorous (and sometimes questionable) suggestions for dealing with an inebriated sailor, reflecting the realities of life at sea where sailors often sought solace in drink during long voyages.
The enduring popularity of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" stems from its simple melody, repetitive lyrics, and the opportunity for improvisation. Different verses can be added or changed to suit the situation or the creativity of the singers. This adaptability has allowed the song to survive and thrive through countless renditions and interpretations over the years. From traditional sea shanty groups to modern folk musicians, everyone seems to have their own take on this classic tune. The song is a great example of how oral traditions can evolve and adapt over time, reflecting the changing social and cultural contexts in which they are sung. It is a cultural artifact that continues to resonate with audiences today, reminding us of the rich history and folklore of seafaring life.
Decoding the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Breakdown
Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty – the lyrics themselves! The song follows a simple structure, with a main question repeated throughout and a series of (often silly) suggestions for handling the titular drunken sailor. Here's a breakdown of some common verses:
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Main Question: "What shall we do with a drunken sailor? What shall we do with a drunken sailor? What shall we do with a drunken sailor? Early in the morning!"
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Common Verses (with explanations):
- "Way hay, up she rises, Way hay, up she rises, Way hay, up she rises, Early in the morning!" (This verse doesn't directly address the drunken sailor but is a common refrain in many shanties.)
- "Shave his belly with a rusty razor..." (Ouch! Definitely not recommended.)
- "Put him in the longboat 'til he's sober..." (A slightly more humane option.)
- "Tie him to the mast 'til he's sober..." (Another way to contain the sailor.)
- "Put him in the scuppers with a hosepipe on him..." (A rather harsh method of sobering up.)
- "Heave him by the leg in a running bowline..." (A nautical term for tying someone up securely.)
The beauty of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" lies in its flexibility. You can add your own verses, making it as humorous or as tame as you like. The key is to keep the rhythm and the spirit of the song alive. So, go ahead, get creative and come up with your own suggestions for dealing with that pesky drunken sailor!
Finding Your Sea Legs: "Drunken Sailor" on YouTube
Now that you're armed with the lyrics and a bit of background, let's set sail for YouTube! There are tons of versions of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" available, ranging from traditional performances to modern interpretations. Here's a quick guide to help you find the perfect version for your tastes:
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Search Terms: Use variations of the song title, such as "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor lyrics," "Drunken Sailor sea shanty," or "Drunken Sailor song." Adding "lyrics" to your search will help you find videos that display the words on screen, making it easier to sing along.
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Explore Different Versions: Don't settle for the first video you find! Take some time to browse through the search results and listen to different versions. You might prefer a traditional a cappella performance, a lively instrumental rendition, or a modern folk-inspired version. There's something for everyone on YouTube.
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Look for Lyric Videos: If you're new to the song or just want to brush up on the lyrics, look for videos that display the words on screen. These lyric videos are a great way to learn the song and sing along with your friends.
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Check Out Traditional Music Channels: Many channels specialize in traditional folk music and sea shanties. These channels often feature high-quality recordings of authentic performances.
Some YouTube Channels or videos known for featuring the song are:
- The Longest Johns: This group is well-known for its modern take on sea shanties. Their performances are energetic and engaging, making them a popular choice for both longtime fans and newcomers to the genre. Their YouTube channel features several versions of "What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?", each with its own unique twist.
- Official Sea Shanty Channel: A channel dedicated to many sea shanties and their history. The channel explores the rich cultural heritage of these maritime songs, providing historical context and engaging performances.
- Various Children's Channels: Due to the song's catchy tune and repetitive lyrics, it's often featured in children's programming. These versions are typically more sanitized and kid-friendly, making them a great option for families.
Sing Along and Have Fun!
"What Do You Do with a Drunken Sailor?" is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact that connects us to the rich history of seafaring. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a landlubber, this timeless tune is sure to bring a smile to your face and a song to your heart. So, grab your friends, raise your voices, and sing along to this classic sea shanty! And remember, always drink responsibly – or at least have a designated driver (or longboat) ready.
