Come on Eileen

Come On Eileen by Dexy’s Midnight Runners is a classic one-hit wonder. I say one-hit, but that’s here in the U.S.; in their home, England, they had two hits. The band created a mind-numbingly infectious beat that creates a great feeling as you sing “Come on Eileen;” because that is the only discernible lyric. But is there a meaning to the song? I’m going to help you out.

It was news to me as I researched this song that it has Irish roots. Both in fact and meaning. The singer is of Irish descent. The plight of the singer, and Eileen, is to escape the depression of the times. Remember, in the late 70s and early 80s, it was tough times in the U.S.A. and England. 

“These people ‘round here were beaten down, eyes sunk in smoke-dried face. They’re so resigned to what their fate is. But not us (not never).”

Escapism is a common refrain by youth, then and now. “We are far too young and clever, (Remember), Too-ra-loo-ra, Too-ra-loo-rye-ay, And you’ll hum this tune forever.”

Too-ra-loo-rye is derived from an Irish lullaby, titled “Too‐Ra‐Loo‐Ra‐Loo‐Ral” that goes thusly: “Over in Killarney, many years ago, Me mother sang a song to me, in tones so sweet and low. Just a simple little ditty in her good old Irish way; And I’d give the world if she could sing that song to me this day.” 

So the idea was that if a childhood lyric would remain with you for life, then “Come On Eileen” would too.

The song has references to youthful lust, but you have to see the lyrics as the song is sung, because it’s hard to understand the accent. “You in that dress. My thoughts, I confess, verge on dirty. Ah, come on, Eileen.” Then, “Come on, Eileen. Oh, I swear (what he means). Ah, come on, let’s take off everything. That pretty red dress, Eileen (tell him yes). Come on, Eileen.”

For me, the song is all about the melody. It just sticks with me despite not being able to understand the singer. And that sort of tracks with childhood lullabies. We remember the ditty but not exactly true to actual lyrics. I’m afraid childhood lullabies are quickly becoming a lost practice in the age of MySpace, FaceTime, Tik Tok, and so forth. 

Am I wrong?

Kelly Burke was born in Knoxville where he spent his younger years, followed by high school years in Atlanta where he graduated from Georgia Tech, and Mercer Law School. He has been in private practice, a magistrate judge, and an elected district attorney. He writes about the law, politics, music, and Ireland. He and his wife enjoy gardening, playing with their Lagotto Ramanolo named George Harrison, and spending time with their grandchildren. To see this column or Kelly’s archives, visit www.kellyrburke.com. You can email Kelly at dakellyburke@gmail.com.