AHEAD of Burns Night, Scotland’s favourite traditional songs have been revealed.
Burns Night, on January 25, celebrates the work of Scotland’s Bard Robert Burns, as people gather to enjoy live traditional Scottish music as well as tucking into some haggis, neeps and tatties.
Scotland's national tourist organisation VisitScotland surveyed more than 1000 Scottish adults to discover their memories of learning traditional songs in the Scots language.
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The survey found almost nine in 10 Scots (86%) said they have fond memories of learning Scots songs at school, with 91% saying that they could read and listen to Scots songs and understand what most of the words mean.
A further 84% said they can still sing the lyrics of songs they learned.
Resonating with the hearts of more than a fifth of Scots (22%), the beloved Canny Shove Yer Grannie was selected as Scotland’s favourite and most memorable Scots song.
Canny Shove Yer Grannie was followed by Donald Where’s Yer Troosers with one in eight Scots selecting it as their favourite.
In third place was Coulter's Candy (Ally Bally) with one in 10 Scots choosing it as their most beloved tune.
Cat Leaver, VisitScotland head of brand and global marketing, said the survey highlighted the “importance” of communities keeping traditions alive.
“Scotland’s rich cultural heritage is a strong draw for visitors and a huge part of what makes us a unique visitor destination,” she said.
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“A passionate advocate of the Scots language, the words of Robert Burns have inspired people around the world for generations, with Burns Night an internationally enjoyed celebration of Scottish culture.
“This research demonstrates the lasting impression of the Scots language on people across the country and the importance of communities to keeping these traditions alive.”
The top 10 Scots songs are below, along with the percentage of people who voted for each song.
- Canny Shove Yer Grannie – 22%
- Donald Where’s Yer Troosers – 12%
- Coulter's Candy (Ally Bally) – 10%
- Wee Willie Winkie – 9%
- Skinny Malinky (longlegs, big banana feet) – 7%
- Three Craws Sat Upon a Wa’ – 6%
- The Jeely Piece Song – 6%
- Bonnie Wee Jeannie McColl – 4%
- Scots Wha Hae – 3%
- My Heart's in the Highlands – 2%
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