GREEN GROW THE LILACS

This ballad is based on a similar song, “Green Grows the Laurel’, that was popular in

17th century Scotland. The American ballad tells the story of an American soldier’s love

for a Mexican lass. One story of the songs origin speculates that Cowboys in South Texas

loved to sing the song. Across the way, Mexicans, who could not understand the words,

could only hear “Green Grow”. So White Americans became known as “Gringo” by the

Mexicans. However, other scholars date the term to the incursion of American troops in

Mexico to search for Pancho Villa.

Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew

I’m lonely, my darling, since parting with you;

But by our next meeting I’ll hope to prove true

And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue.

Green grow the lilacs reminding me of

The ones that I brought you with all of my love,

The gates of my country will open for you

And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue.

Green grow the lilacs, Your favorite flow’r,

So sweetly perfuming – a sad parting hour.

Oh send me a message – That you love me too,

Let’s change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue.

Banjo Mountain