Lyrics and Chords

Whiskey in the Jar - a tale of deception

The lyrics to Whiskey in the Jar are now as well known to many rock fans as they are to Irish music enthusiasts thanks to versions of the song by bands like Thin Lizzy and Metallica.

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The song tells the story of a highwayman who robs an army officer. He takes the money home to his beloved Jenny, only to find that she later betrays him.

He’s captured and sent to prison, where he dreams of being rescued by his brother so he can resume his carefree, roving lifestyle.

They lyrics are rebellious and defiant so it’s perhaps not surprising that Whiskey in the Jar appeals to so many young rock fans, as well as to many ‘not so young’ Irish music fans, who may still have a touch of the rebel in them.

Whiskey in the Jar lyrics and chords

C 

As I was going over the  

Am 

far famed Kerry mountains

 

I  

F 

met with Captain Farrell and his  

C 

money he was counting.

 

I first produced my pistol, and  

Am 

then produced my rapier.

 

Said  

F 

stand and deliver, for I  

C 

am a bold deceiver.

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Chorus

 

Musha  

G7 

ring dumma do damma da

 

C 

Whack for the daddy ‘oh

 

F 

Whack for the daddy ‘oh

 

There’s  

C 

whiskey 

 

 

G7 

in the  

C 

jar.

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I counted out his money, and it made a pretty penny.

I put it in my pocket and I took it home to Jenny.

She said and she swore, that she never would deceive me,

but the devil take the women, for they never can be easy.

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Chorus

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I went into my chamber, all for to take a slumber,

I dreamt of gold and jewels and for sure it was no wonder.

But Jenny took my charges and she filled them up with water,

Then sent for captain Farrel to be ready for the slaughter.

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Chorus

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It was early in the morning, as I rose up for travel,

The guards were all around me and likewise captain Farrel.

I first produced my pistol, for she stole away my rapier,

But I couldn’t shoot the water so a prisoner I was taken.

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Chorus

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If anyone can aid me, it’s my brother in the army,

If I can find his station down in Cork or in Killarney.

And if he’ll come and save me, we’ll go roving near Kilkenny,

And I swear he’ll treat me better than me darling sportling Jenny.

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Chorus

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Now some men take delight in the drinking and the roving,

But others take delight in the gambling and the smoking.

But I take delight in the juice of the barley,

And courting pretty fair maids in the morning bright and early.

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Chorus

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Information on Whiskey in the Jar