Wild Mountain Thyme

Wild Mountain Thyme

(Traditional-ish)

Wild Mountain Thyme was first recorded by Francis McPeake in 1957 and is based on an earlier song written by Robert Tannahill (1774-1819) called The Braes of Balquidder. It’s such a moving and rousing song that has become a standard part of my live set. I just had to record it.

O the summer time has come
And the trees are sweetly blooming
And wild mountain thyme
Grows around the purple heather.
Will you go, lassie, go?

(Chorus)
And we’ll all go together,
To pick wild mountain thyme,
All around the purple heather.
Will you go, lassie, go?

I will build my love a tower,
By yon clear crystal fountain,
And on it I will pile,
All the flowers of the mountain.
Will you go, lassie, go?

I will wander through the wilds
Through this deep land so dreary
And return with the spoils
To the bower o’ my dearie.
Will ye go lassie go ?

If my true love she won’t come,
Then I’ll surely find another,
To pick wild mountain thyme,
All around the blooming heather.
Will you go, lassie, go?