Charlie Robison was an American country singer and songwriter. He was born in 1964 in Houston, Texas. Charlie made a name for himself in the late 1990s and 2000s with his mix of country, rock, and Tex-Mex music.
His songs often shared personal stories with humor and emotion. Some of his popular albums include Life of the Party and Step Right Up.
He retired from music after health issues, and his contributions to the country music scene are still remembered today.
About the Song
John O’Reilly is a lively story song that blends Irish folk roots with country storytelling. The lyrics follow John O’Reilly, an Irish immigrant, as he faces hardship, adventure, and a longing for home.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Album | Step Right Up |
John O’Reilly Lyrics by Charlie Robison
My name is John O’Reilly
And my father worked the fields
In the hills of old Kilarny
Where I helped him turn the wheels
My arms grew hard as iron for a boy of 17
And I used my fists for gambling in those wet Kilarny streets
Well the ship left for America and I brought my pack aboard
Said goodbye to my dear Ireland said a prayer to my dear Lord
I fought those sorry guineas in the kitchen they called hell
I fought them for their dollar and those guineas paid me well
Chorus
Fair thee well fair Dover
Fair thee well your seasons turn
For my pockets will be jingling on the day of my return
The day of my return
I fought in New York City and I fought the Jersey shore
My gut stayed full of whiskey and my bed stayed full of whores
They called my right a cannonball and my left they called the same
I left em’ all lyin’ half in blood and half in shame
I met a man on ’32 and he stuck out his hand
And he offered me a thousand if I’d fall before his man
I said it could be done but only for another two
He smiled at me and nodded as I stuck it in my shoe
Chorus
Fair thee well fair Dover
Fair thee well your seasons turn
For my pockets will be jingling on the day of my return
The day of my return
They rang the bell two times before I let him have my nose
And I let him work my left until my eye was swollen closed
Then I let loose a right that they still talk about today
For that guinea didn’t know that I had bet the other way
They covered every dock and every port there on the coast
Looking for that double crosser who had turned into a ghost
But I was on a train my friend that rode the other way
And i’ll sail from California back to Dublin one fine day
Chorus
Fair thee well fair Dover
Fair thee well your seasons turn
For my pockets will be jingling on the day of my return
The day of my return
Similar Songs Like John O’Reilly
If John O’Reilly hits home for you, Charlie Robison’s other songs will similarly speak to your soul. Check out these tunes.
- My Hometown: This song paints a picture of where Charlie grew up. The melody feels warm like old memories.
- Barlight: A story about nightlife and meeting strangers. The guitar playing makes you feel like you’re sitting in a small bar.
- Loving County: Charlie sings about wide open spaces and small town feelings. His voice sounds honest when telling this story.
- New Year’s Day: A thoughtful song about fresh starts and looking back. The slow tempo matches the winter mood perfectly.
Similar Artists Like Charlie Robison
Here are some artists who offer similar country and Americana tunes that will match your musical taste.
- Ryan Bingham
Genres: Americana, Country Rock
Top Albums: Mescalito (2007), Tomorrowland (2010), Fear and Saturday Night (2015) - Pat Green
Genres: Country, Texas Country
Top Albums: Wave on Wave (2003), Songs About Texas (2006), Home (2015) - Koe Wetzel
Genres: Country, Texas Country
Top Albums: Love (2018), Austin (2020), Kuntry & Wistern (2016) - Jack Ingram
Genres: Country, Texas Country
Top Albums: Livin’ or Dyin’ (2002), This Is It (2005), Big Dreams & High Hopes (2010)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is John O’Reilly Considered One of Robison’s Standout Songs?
The song is admired for its raw, honest storytelling and emotional depth, making it a fan favorite.
What Impact Did John O’Reilly Have on Robison’s Career?
The song further firmed Robison’s standing in the country music scene, earning him recognition for his sincere storytelling style.
Are There Any Women in the John O’Reilly Song?
John has brief mentions of relationships, but they don’t work out well in his hard life.
