Bird in the Bush - Official Video | Pauline Scanlon

Bird in the Bush is the first single from Pauline Scanlon's 2022 album The Unquiet. 'The Bird In The Bush’ is a traditional song of female sensuality. Folk and traditional songs of female sexuality frequently have grave consequences for the women contained within them. I wanted to sing with freedom and agency and ‘The Bird In The Bush’ embodies that energy so succinctly. I have collaborated with some extraordinary artists on the video.

Dancer Siobhán Manson, videographer Laura Sheeran and I toured around Galway on the hottest day of last summer to create this video. Our mission was to embody the sensuality and sexuality of the song from our collective female perspective without harking back it’s traditional roots, but rather inhabiting it in the present. I am full of admiration for both artists and hugely grateful for their collaboration.

The album will be released on Friday April 8th, 2022.

CREDITS:
Pauline Scanlon - lead vocals
Nicola Joyce - harmony vocals
Graham Kearns - electric guitar
Chris Pemberton - keyboards & synths
John Reynolds - drums
Clare Kenny – bass
Trad Arr: Scanlon/Reynolds/Kearns

LYRICS:
Three maidens a-walking did go
And the wind it blew high and the wind it did blow low
It tossed their petticoats to and fro

They met with a young man they knew
And they asked of him if he had any skill
To catch them a small bird or two

Oh Yes I've a very fine skill
And if you'll come along with me to yon flowering are
I might catch you a small bird or two

So along to the greenwoods they went
And the bird it flew in and the bird it flew out
Just a above her snow-white knee

Here's a health to the bird in the bush
And we’ll drink up the sun, and drink down the moon
Let the people say little or much

[azby]

I love your voice!! I first heard you singing Come All Ye Fair and Tender Ladies on a video (where you were in a pub) and I listened to it over and over. I really hope to see you sing live one day 😀.

[eirinn]

I can't explain how emotional the melody and harmonies of this song makes me feel. And also at peace.

[rogerdodger]

Youre an absolutely amazing vocalist. I first watched you sing Fill Fill a Run O a few years ago and have been impressed ever since.

[patkeogh]

Heard this on the radio this morning love it