Folk Songs of the World | Hometown Songs Passed Down Abroad
Here are some famous songs selected from folk music that has been passed down and sung in various countries and regions around the world.
Even if you don’t know the titles, you may have heard them somewhere or hummed them as a child—foreign folk songs are actually quite familiar in our daily lives.
In some cases, the version widely known in Japan is the adaptation, and you might discover, “So this was the original song!”
Learning which country a song comes from leads to learning about that country’s culture and history, and it will broaden your horizons.
Please take a listen to these time-honored folk songs that are cherished in each country!
World Folk Songs | Hometown Songs Passed Down Overseas (1–10)
Grandfather's ClockAmerican folk song / Henry Clay Work
Grandfather’s Clock is an American song composed in the 19th century by Henry Clay Work.
The model for the song was a longcase clock placed in the George Hotel, where Work stayed during his tour of England.
Return to SorrentoNeapolitan folk song / Ernesto De Curtis / Giambattista De Curtis
“Return to Sorrento” is a Neapolitan song that portrays the beautiful nature of Sorrento and a man’s feelings of love.
There are various theories about its origin, but the most widely accepted one is that in 1902, when the Italian prime minister visited Sorrento, the mayor, hoping for economic support and wishing to entertain the guest, commissioned the Curtis brothers to write the lyrics and compose the music.
The Londonderry Air (Danny Boy)Irish folk song
This work is known as a traditional Irish folk song.
It is characterized by a beautiful melody and moving lyrics, and is said to originate from the Londonderry region.
In 1913, Frederick Weatherly added lyrics and re-released it as “Danny Boy,” through which it became widely known.
The lyrics, themed around love, nostalgia, and farewell, resonate deeply with listeners.
Its gently flowing melody evokes the rich natural landscapes of Ireland.
It has been used in films and television programs, further increasing its recognition.
This is a highly recommended song for those interested in Irish culture and history.
Light of FirefliesScottish folk song / Robert Burns
Auld Lang Syne is a folk song with lyrics written by the Scottish poet Robert Burns, based on a traditional Scottish melody.
In English-speaking countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Scotland, it is sung as a New Year’s song at the moment the new year begins during New Year’s Eve countdowns.
London BridgeBritish folk song
This piece has long been cherished as a traditional English folk song.
Its lyrics, which date back as far as the 13th century, revolve around the destruction and reconstruction of London Bridge.
With its simple melody and repetitive structure, it is widely loved as a children’s play song.
Since it was first recorded in 1744 in Tommy Thumb’s Pretty Song Book, it has been sung around the world.
It is also used as a beginner practice piece for piano and violin, making it a staple in educational settings.
Its historical background and familiar tune may be why it continues to resonate with people across the ages.
Mary's LambAmerican folk song / Sarah Josepha Hale
This work could be called a gem of American folk songs.
Published in 1830 by Sarah Josepha Hale, this nursery rhyme gently tells the story of Mary, a girl who loves her little lamb.
The sight of a snow-white lamb following the girl, guided by affection, left a warm feeling in children’s hearts.
In 1877, Thomas Edison famously used this song to make the first recording of the human voice on his newly invented phonograph.
With its simple melody and charming lyrics, it’s a song many hum from early childhood.
Teaching kindness to animals and pure affection, it is truly a timeless classic beloved across generations.
Old MacDonald Had a FarmAmerican folk song
A nursery rhyme originating in the United States, passed down by children in Japan—this work carries a curious charm.
Its lyrics depict cheerful everyday life on a farm, incorporating animal sounds and unfolding with a rhythmic flow.
The 4/4 time signature makes it easy for children to sing together.
Widely used in both education and entertainment, it also plays an important role as a teaching tool for learning animal names and their sounds.
Influenced by Stephen Foster, born in 1826, and other American folk song composers, this piece’s simple, memorable melody and repetitive structure may be why it remains beloved across generations.