Common songs and session favourites

While there is no formal tune book at The Northern Session, we have put together a list of the songs and tunes we sing and play most often. Whether you are nervous about rocking up unprepared or simply curious about our repertoire, look up these titles on your favourite streaming platform or folk archive to get a feel for our nights in Aberdeen.

North-East and Scottish songs

Being rooted in Aberdeen, our sessions naturally lean into beloved ballads, bothy ballads, and traditional Scottish tunes. Here are a few that regularly get the room singing along:

  • The Barnyards of Delgaty – classic North-East bothy favourite
  • The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen – an essential local sing-along
  • Yellows on the Broom – traditional ballad
  • The Bonnie Lass o' Fyvie – North-East classic
  • Wild Mountain Thyme – popular chorus song
  • Caledonia – modern folk staple
  • Sam Hall 

Lyrics and extra details will be added over time, but searching these titles will easily bring up plenty of great recordings to listen along to.

Irish and Celtic favourites

A welcoming folk session is never complete without a healthy selection of timeless Irish ballads and rousing choruses. You will often hear us launch into these well-known numbers:

  • The Parting Glass – beloved closing song
  • The Wild Rover – familiar chorus favourite
  • Molly Malones – a famous Dublin fishmonger
  • Star of the County Down – upbeat classic
  • Dirty Old Town
  • The Black Velvet Band – lively sing-along
  • Whiskey in the Jar – traditional arrangement

Feel free to join in on the chorus or take a verse if you feel comfortable—there is never any pressure.

Country and Americana

  • Will the circle be unbroken
  • Take Me Home, Country Roads
  • Freight Train
  • In the pines
  • Good Night, Irene

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