The Wolfe Tones are a renowned Irish folk and rebel music band formed in Dublin in 1963. Named after Theobald Wolfe Tone, a leader of the 1798 Irish Rebellion, the group originally consisted of Brian Warfield, Derek Warfield, Noel Nagle, and Tommy Byrne.

Their music often reflects Irish history, nationalism, and pride, with notable songs such as “Celtic Symphony” and “Joe McDonnell” strengthening their place in the Irish folk tradition.

About the Song

Celtic Symphony is a song written to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Celtic Football Club in Glasgow. It tells the story of a sailor possessed by the devil who finds freedom by visiting Celtic’s stadium, known as Paradise.

The song is famous for its catchy chorus and has become an anthem for Celtic fans and Irish nationalists. It mixes pride in the football club with themes of Irish identity and history.

Celtic Symphony Lyrics by The Wolfe Tones

Far across the sea, when the devil got a hold of me
He wouldn’t set me free, he kept me soul for ransom

Na na na na na…

I’m a sailor man from Glasgow town,
I’ve roamed the world around and round
Meanest thing that I have found
In all me days of wandering

Na na na na na…

I could see his evil eyes,
Then he took me by surprise,
Take me to your paradise,
I want to see the Jungle.

Na na na na na…

Here we go again, we’re on the road again.
We’re on the road again, we’re on the way to paradise.
We love the jungle deep, that’s where the lion sleeps
For then those evil eyes, they have no place in paradise

I paint graffiti on the walls, just as the sun was going down
I see graffiti on the walls – for the Celts! for the Celts!
Graffiti on the walls says we’re magic, magic,
Graffiti on the wall…I see grafitti on the wall

And it says, ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
It says ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.

[Instrumental]

We went thru’ each jungle deep
For the paradise that we did seek
Twas no trip for the weak
They’re waltzing with the natives

Na na na na na…

From the Amazon to Borneo,
From Africa to Tokyo,
To the darkest jungles of the world,
Nowhere could I lose him.

Na na na na na…

Around in circles every way,
He turned to me and he did say,
“I think you’re leading me astray,
I want your soul, me boyo!”

Na na na na na…

Here we go again, we’re on the road again.
We’re on the road again, we’re on the way to paradise.
We love the jungle deep, that’s where the lion sleeps
For then those evil eyes, have no place in paradise

I paint graffiti on the walls, just as the sun was going down
I see graffiti on the walls – for the Celts! for the Celts!
Graffiti on the walls says we’re magic, magic,
Graffiti on the wall… I see grafitti on the wall

And it says ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.
Ooh ah up the ‘RA, say ooh ah up the ‘RA.

Similar Songs Like Celtic Symphony

Here are several songs by The Wolfe Tones that are similar in style, theme, or spirit to Celtic Symphony, along with brief descriptions of each:

• Go Home British Soldiers: With its rebellious lyrics and energetic melody, it has become a staple at Irish gatherings and rallies, highlighting the band’s roots in rebellion and nationalist sentiment.
• Let the People Sing: It’s a motivating song that celebrates the enduring spirit of Irish music and culture, even in the face of oppression.
• The Broad Black Brimmer: This song tells the story of a young man discovering his father’s IRA cap. It’s an emotional reflection on family, legacy, and the passing down of revolutionary ideals.
• Highland Paddy: The song celebrates the strength of the Irish spirit and the connections between the Irish and Scottish working classes.

Similar Artists Like The Wolfe Tones

Below are similar artists to The Wolfe Tones, along with their genre and notable albums:

• The Dubliners
  Genre: Irish Folk, Traditional Irish Music
  Notable Albums: The Dubliners (1964), Live at the Gaiety (1967), Finnegan Wakes (1975)
• The Clancy Brothers
  Genre: Irish Folk, Traditional Irish Music
  Notable Albums: The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem (1959), The Best of the Clancy Brothers
• The Chieftains
  Genre: Traditional Irish, Celtic, Folk
  Notable Albums: The Chieftains 1 (1964), Celtic Wedding (1992), The Long Black Veil (1995)
• The Pogues
  Genre: Celtic Punk, Irish Folk Rock
  Notable Albums: Rum, Sodomy & the Lash (1985), If I Should Fall from Grace with God (1988)
• Flogging Molly
  Genre: Celtic Punk, Folk Rock
  Notable Albums: Swagger (2000), Drunken Lullabies (2002), Float (2008)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There References to Irish History in Celtic Symphony?

Yes, the song refers to Ireland’s struggle for freedom, its rich cultural heritage, and the symbolic meaning of the Celtic spirit.

What is the Significance of the Word Symphony?

The word symphony represents the mix of Irish Folk Music with a more contemporary sound, symbolizing the harmony and unity of the Irish people.

Have Other Artists Covered Celtic Symphony?

Yes, various Irish musicians and groups have covered the song, adding their interpretations while maintaining its core message of Irish pride.