6 July 1989
Content warning: domestic violence; abusive relationships; male violence against women
Yes, a number one single in Ireland in 1989 was a jaunty, ersatz trad-Irish ditty that romanticises abusive relationships and serial male violence against women, with no sign of any remorse or comeuppance. The male narrator is also a musician, so we have the issue of male artists being excused their abusive and bullying behaviour towards the women in their lives.
I remember this was a huge airplay hit at the time. What’s more, I also remember it receiving the significant Irish pop-cultural accolade of being used on an RTÉ sports montage, namely a Sunday Game closing sequence with various hard-chaw Gaelic footballers of the day belting each other: ho ho! It was a stupid and offensive song then and it still is now.
Women’s Aid are an Irish support organisation working to combat domestic violence against women and children, and supporting those who are victims of it. You can call their helpline at 1800 341 900 and learn more about their work—including how to donate—at womensaid.ie
