Folk Songs of the World | Hometown Songs Passed Down Abroad
Here are some famous songs selected from folk music that has been passed down and sung in various countries and regions around the world.
Even if you don’t know the titles, you may have heard them somewhere or hummed them as a child—foreign folk songs are actually quite familiar in our daily lives.
In some cases, the version widely known in Japan is the adaptation, and you might discover, “So this was the original song!”
Learning which country a song comes from leads to learning about that country’s culture and history, and it will broaden your horizons.
Please take a listen to these time-honored folk songs that are cherished in each country!
World Folk Songs | Hometown Songs Passed Down Overseas (1–10)
Grandfather’s ClockAmerika min’yō / Henly Clay Work
Grandfather’s Clock is an American song composed in the 19th century by Henry Clay Work.
The model for the song was a longcase clock placed in the George Hotel, where Work stayed during his tour of England.
Mary’s LambAmerika min’yō / Sarah Josepha Hale
This work could be called a gem of American folk songs.
Published in 1830 by Sarah Josepha Hale, this nursery rhyme gently tells the story of Mary, a girl who loves her little lamb.
The sight of a snow-white lamb following the girl, guided by affection, left a warm feeling in children’s hearts.
In 1877, Thomas Edison famously used this song to make the first recording of the human voice on his newly invented phonograph.
With its simple melody and charming lyrics, it’s a song many hum from early childhood.
Teaching kindness to animals and pure affection, it is truly a timeless classic beloved across generations.
The Londonderry Air (Danny Boy)Airurando min’yō
This work is known as a traditional Irish folk song.
It is characterized by a beautiful melody and moving lyrics, and is said to originate from the Londonderry region.
In 1913, Frederick Weatherly added lyrics and re-released it as “Danny Boy,” through which it became widely known.
The lyrics, themed around love, nostalgia, and farewell, resonate deeply with listeners.
Its gently flowing melody evokes the rich natural landscapes of Ireland.
It has been used in films and television programs, further increasing its recognition.
This is a highly recommended song for those interested in Irish culture and history.
The Bear of the Forestamerika min’yō
“The Bear of the Forest” (Mori no Kuma-san) is originally an American folk song.
It became widely known in Japan after its first broadcast on NHK’s “Minna no Uta” in August 1972.
In the original song as well, a humorous exchange between a person and a bear they encounter is depicted.
BirdsongKataronia min’yō
The Song of the Birds is a traditional folk tune from Catalonia, Spain, made famous through Pablo Casals’s arrangement and cello performance.
The original piece is a Christmas carol from Casals’s homeland of Catalonia.
Its lyrics depict birds gathering and singing to celebrate the Nativity of Christ.
London BridgeIgirisu min’yō
This piece has long been cherished as a traditional English folk song.
Its lyrics, which date back as far as the 13th century, revolve around the destruction and reconstruction of London Bridge.
With its simple melody and repetitive structure, it is widely loved as a children’s play song.
Since it was first recorded in 1744 in Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book, it has been sung around the world.
It is also used as a beginner practice piece for piano and violin, making it a staple in educational settings.
Its historical background and familiar tune may be why it continues to resonate with people across the ages.
Amazing GraceSukottorando min’yō / John Newton
Known as a hymn praising God’s grace, this piece features lyrics that deeply moved many, reflecting the dramatic life of its lyricist, John Newton, though the composer remains unknown.
The joy and gratitude of being saved from a sinful past are expressed through a simple and beautiful melody.
Since the lyrics were written in 1772, it has been loved across generations and, especially in the United States, became an iconic song of the abolitionist and civil rights movements.
In October 2005, it was released in a classical arrangement, drawing renewed attention.
With a universal message that comforts those seeking solace, this work is one to listen to when you want to quietly reflect on yourself.