Sean Dagher is a Canadian singer and musician. He is known for singing sea shanties and old songs, using his heavy voice and instruments like the guitar, oud, and banjo.
He works with La Nef, a music group from Montreal. They sing songs from the past, like sailor songs and folk music, and share them with people today through shows and recordings.
Sean also made music for the game Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. His strong, honest voice helped these sea shanties become popular with new listeners around the world.
About the Song
Leave Her, Johnny is a sea shanty sung by sailors when their time on the ship is done. The song shares their hard days, cold nights, and hopes to go home. Its steady rhythm and words feel honest, tired, and true.
This version is sung by Sean Dagher. Michiel Schrey and Nils Brown join him as featured singers, whose voices add profoundness and harmony to the song’s worn but hopeful feel.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | October 29, 2013 |
| Album | Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag (Game Soundtrack: The Complete Edition) (2013) |
| Writers | Traditional |
Leave Her, Johnny Lyrics by Sean Dagher
Verse 1
I thought I heard the Old Man say:
“Leave her, Johnny, leave her.”
Tomorrow you will get your pay
And it’s time for us to leave her
Chorus
Leave her, Johnny, leave her!
Oh, leave her, Johnny, leave her!
For the voyage is long and the winds don’t blow
And it’s time for us to leave her
Verse 2
Oh, the wind was foul and the sea ran high
“Leave her, Johnny, leave her!”
She shipped it green and none went by
And it’s time for us to leave her
Chorus
Leave her, Johnny, leave her!
Oh, leave her, Johnny, leave her!
For the voyage is long and the winds don’t blow
And it’s time for us to leave her
Verse 3
I hate to sail on this rotten tub
“Leave her, Johnny, leave her!”
No grog allowed and rotten grub
And it’s time for us to leave her
Chorus
Leave her, Johnny, leave her!
Oh, leave her, Johnny, leave her!
For the voyage is long and the winds don’t blow
And it’s time for us to leave her
Verse 4
We swear by rote for want of more
“Leave her, Johnny, leave her!”
But now we’re through so we’ll go on shore
And it’s time for us to leave her
Chorus
Leave her, Johnny, leave her!
Oh, leave her, Johnny, leave her!
For the voyage is long and the winds don’t blow
And it’s time for us to leave her
Similar Songs Like Leave Her, Johnny
If you love Leave Her, Johnny, these tunes will spark your sea-loving spirit in fresh, unexpected ways.
- Captain Kidd: You’ll hear voices shouting together, telling a pirate’s story. The beat is strong, and everyone joins in for a big finish.
- Fish in the Sea: This song feels light and playful, like a sunny afternoon with friends. The trio’s voices blend in a way that makes you want to hum along, as if you’re sharing a story about all the events waiting at sea.
- Randy Dandy-O: A fast and lively tune. The singing is playful and makes you want to clap along, like sailors getting ready for a big trip.
Similar Artists Like Sean Dagher
If you enjoy Sean Dagher’s deep voice, traditional style, and heartfelt sea shanties, these artists carry the same love for old songs and honest sound:
- David Coffin
Genre: Sea Shanties, Maritime Folk
Top Albums: Live from the Revels Stage (2009), Rolling Home (2006) - Tom Lewis
Genre: Nautical Folk, Contemporary Shanty
Top Albums: 360° (2005), Sea-Dog, See-Dog! (2010) - The Longest Johns
Genre: Folk, Sea Shanties
Top Albums: Between Wind and Water (2018), Smoke & Oakum (2022) - Stan Rogers
Genre: Folk, Maritime Ballads
Top Albums: Northwest Passage (1981), Fogarty’s Cove (1977) - Jez Lowe
Genre: Folk, Traditional British
Top Albums: The Ballad Beyond (2016), Jack Common’s Anthem (2007)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this Version Compare to Older Recordings?
It’s warmer and more modern, but still true to tradition. Their friendship shines through, making the old story feel new.
Is Sean Dagher Always the Lead Voice in this Song?
Yes, typically Sean takes the lead. His expressive tone fits perfectly, while Michiel and Nils support with beautiful harmonies and texture.
Was this Song Used in Any Video Games or Shows?
Yes! It gained popularity after being featured in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, helping this version reach a wider audience worldwide.
