Bonnie Jean Cameron

from "Pick of the Literal" by Sean Smith

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If nothing else, Prince Charles Stuart AKA Bonnie Prince Charlie had some accomplished songwriters working for him, cultivating his image as a foremost warrior, strategist, statesman and, in this case, an object of romantic desire. In reality, although Jean Cameron was an actual person – the daughter of one of Charlie’s allies – there is no evidence she had any meaningful relation with the Young Pretender. I was originally inspired to learn the song from the version sung by Jamie McMenemy -- the tune is not traditional, but was written by Alan MacFadyen -- on the first Kornog record, but I think I must’ve heard others somewhere.

lyrics

You all have heard of bonnie Jean Cameron
How she was sick and like for to die
But the only thing they could recommend her
Was aye blithe blink from The Young Pretender

CHORUS: And it’s rare, oh rare, bonnie Jean Cameron
Rare, oh rare, bonnie Jean Cameron
Rare, oh rare

The doctor was sent to see if he could cure her
Quickly he came, he made no delay
But the only thing he could recommend her
Was aye blithe blink from The Young Pretender

To Charlie she wrote a very long letter
Who were his friends, and who were his foes?
And the words that she used were loving and tender
To win the heart of The Young Pretender

Well, scarce had she sent off the letter
When up flew the door and in came her king
Oh, she prayed to the saints, bade angels defend her
And fell into the arms of The Young Pretender

credits

from "Pick of the Literal", released August 7, 2018

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about

Sean T. Smith Boston, Massachusetts

Sean Smith has been playing folk music since his teens, with a focus on the traditions of Ireland, Scotland and England in particular. He's been active in the Greater Boston music scene since the early '80s, and been part of numerous collaborations. He also writes about music for BostonIrish.com, helps organize an annual Celtic music festival, and has been known to drink Ballantine Ale. ... more

seansmithmusic.wixsite.com

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