Rolling Sea
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This is a very old song, with the earliest known example appearing under the title "Rolling Sailor" in a London chapbook printed in 1790.[1]
The Longest Johns' version seems to most closely follow the lyrics used by Eliza Carthy[2]. The song was led by Anna and does not seem to have been performed since her departure from the band; it does not currently appear on the official song list.
Lyrics
These lyrics are based on the version performed by the Longest Johns in their livestreams.
Don't ya see the ships a'comin?
Don't ya see them in full sail?
Don't ya see the ships a'comin
With their prizes at their tail?
{Chorus}
Oh, my little rolling sailor
Oh, my little rolling he
How I love my rolling sailor
When he's on a rollin' sea
When he's on a rollin', rollin,'
When he's on a rollin' sea.
When he's on a rollin', rollin,'
When he's on a rollin' sea.
Sailors, they get all the money
Soldiers, they get none but brass
How I love my pretty sailor
Soldiers, they can kiss my---
{Chorus}
Oh the wars will soon be over
Peace and plenty come again
E'ry lass will get a laddie
She won't have to sleep alone
{Chorus}
How can I be blithe and merry
When my true love's far from me?
All those pretty little sailors
They've been pressed and taken to sea
{Chorus 2x}