By Paddy McCarthy
“For Another King And Country” performed by Phil Coulter and Roy Buckley is more than just a song. It is a tragic story from the First World War, an Irish “Saving Private Ryan” without the happy ending.
In the early days of WW1, before the full horrors unfolded, Irishmen were encouraged to join the British Army.When times were hard, jobs were scarce and the future was very bleak the added incentive, as promoted by John Redmond MP, leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party, was that in return for this support, Ireland would be granted Home Rule.
Six Collins brothers from a poor family in Waterford city answered the call and joined up. Four of them fell in the battles of Flanders and the Somme. One died later of his terrible wounds and the remaining brother William, was sent home on compassionate leave.
The political landscape had changed dramatically while he was gone. The 1916 Rebellion had captured the minds and hearts of the Irish people.
Having been waved off to war as a hero, William returned as an unwelcome supporter of the English Crown, as a pariah in his own town.
“My great friend Ralph McTell has long had a fascination with WW1 and has written very movingly on the era,” said Phil. “When I shared with him that I’d just uncovered the story of the Collins brothers he told me that I needed to write a song about it. I thought I’d introduce some fresh energy into the creative process so invited Ryan Hennessy and Jimmy Rainsford of Picture This to join me.
“When it came to matching a singer to the song, one name came to mind straight away. Cork folksinger Roy Buckley was the perfect voice. Known as the last of the balladeers, Roy is steeped in that storytelling tradition and, as if to underline the connection, his Great Grandfather fought in WW1.
“I’ve been blessed to have worked with some the giants in this tradition, Luke Kelly, Finbar Furey, Paddy Reilly, Liam Clancy, and it’s been quite a while since those days. I’ve really enjoyed returning to this world and have found this project to be a joy from beginning to end.
“Given the state of the world right now, I believe that a story that reminds us of the horrors and futility of war is timely”
I am so proud to tell you that he is a great friend and has been for many years. Philip is an Irish musician, songwriter and record producer from Derry, Northern Ireland. He was awarded the Gold Badge from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors in October 2009.
Phil has amassed 23 platinum discs, 39 gold discs, 52 silver discs, two Grand Prix Eurovision awards; five Ivor Novello Awards, which includes Songwriter of the Year; three American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers awards; a Grammy Nomination; a Meteor Award, a National Entertainment Award and a Rose d’or d’Antibes.
He is one of the biggest record sellers in the island of Ireland. His well known songs include “The Town I Loved So Well”, “Puppet on a String” and “Congratulations”.