Ar Lan y Môr
is a traditional Welsh folk love song. A single verse was published by the Welsh Folk Song Society in 1937, and again in 1948. A slightly different version was recorded by the BBC in 1953. Extra verses have been added, mostly from the 'Hen Benillion'.
Recordings and performances
The song was a favourite of Welsh actor Richard Burton and was sung by Burton and Elizabeth Taylor on the premier episode of The Sammy Davis, Jr. Show on 7 January, 1966. The performance marked the first time the controversial couple had appeared together on TV."Ar Lan y Môr" has been frequently recorded. Notably, the song features on the first Welsh-language concept album, Endaf Emlyn's Salem. A rendition appears on the only comedy album to top the UK Albums Chart to date, Max Boyce's We All Had Doctors' Papers. The song also appears on Ar Log's eponymous 1978 debut album, Bryn Terfel's album We'll Keep a Welcome and Katherine Jenkins' debut album Première. Recently Adwaith recorded a modern version of the song in 2020.
The song is often included in the Last Night of the BBC Proms.
Words, with English translation
Melodies
1. CAGC 3 p.1252. CAGC 3 p.126
3. Folksongs of Britain and Ireland p.137