Danny Farrell

Not to be confused with British artist/music producer, Danny Farrell (artist)

Danny Farrell is a song[1] recorded by The Dubliners.[2] Sung by Ronnie Drew in a gruff monotone it tells the story of an educationally challenged Irish male whose life (from an unpromising start) goes from bad to worse. The song is socially and culturally significant, depicting the struggles faced by Irish Travellers (a minority within a minority at the time the song was written): limited employment prospects, alcoholism, homelessness and loneliness. Despite painting a bleak overview of this man's life the songwriter cannot but admire this "Pavement Peasant's" inner core.

The song was written by Dublin songwriter Pete St. John.

Notes

  1. Song lyrics
  2. ARC Music EUCD 1533 The Dubliners Special Collection CD1 Song 6