Song 1 – The Pogues' A Fairytale of New York (Key of G)

I just know I’ll regret this…it’s already taking over my life. I’m almost embarassed to write anything because I’ll be writing my resignation post before I know it. Still…let’s give it a go.

Week 1 of the new year’s challenge. Learn a popular song every week for a year.

There were various discussions about which to do first, but I’ve decided on Sally’s suggestion of The Pogues’ “A Fairytale of New York”. Pretty simple music, mostly Gs, Ds and As with a few Bm’s, but with some interesting words. It helps that the words kind of tell a story as it’s easier to remember.

The choice of a male/female duet may probe interesting too.

I’ve actually spent more time trying to learn the words than the music. That will have to change. The problem is that it’s one of those songs that I’ve heard a million time and I think I know some of the words from what they sound like. e.g. I always thought the chorus bit was:

“The wise and the unwise singing (something) were singing going (something)”

when it’s actually

“The boys of the NYPD choir were singing Galway Bay”

which makes a LOT more sense.

In other “52 songs” news, I’ve using technology to help me! I’ve started downloading some popular tracks from iTunes at 79p each. I’m going to create a “52 songs” playlist to help me along, and I have a folder for keeping the tabs (guitar chord music) in.

Anyway…off to learn the music! Report back – and a new song! – at the end of the week.