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Bon Accord

from Like the river by Alex MacDonald

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about

In 1993 we left Bon Accord Church in Aberdeen as I was called to Buccleuch in Edinburgh. It was a very emotional time. A farewell meeting was arranged and, for someone who makes his living in a form of public speaking, I am not very good on those sorts of occasions. Thankfully this song came to me. Bon Accord is the motto of the City of Aberdeen and the chorus is based on the Aberdeen Toast: “Happy to meet. Sorry to part. Happy to meet again. Bon Accord!”

lyrics

BON ACCORD

I came to this city about ten years ago
And I didn't know how strong the east wind could blow
It's blown away my cobwebs, it's blown into my soul
Makes me long to be clean, to be alive and to be whole

Chorus
Happy I was to meet you
Sorry I am to part
Happy I'll be to meet again
Where we will never part
Bon Accord

This city's built of granite on the land and on the sea
Between Highland and Lowland, between the Don and Dee
Now granite's strong and lasting, against the wind and rain
Formed in earth's furnace, like a people's pain

You came here from the north, from the south and from the west
From the hills and from the islands, the brightest and the best
You were drawn to this city, its learning and its oil
You helped to build its glory with your skill and with your toil

But there is within this city another one of love
Its not built from the earth, it comes down from above
But we've helped to build its walls, every stone to us is dear
It's built upon the rock, with blood and sweat and tears

Been with you through the high times, been with you through the low
But now's the time for parting and I just want you to know
That I never will forget you and what you did for me
And how God did something special when he set us free

(c) Alex J MacDonald

credits

from Like the river, released October 4, 2008
Alex MacDonald: vocals, guitar, and harmonica
Doug MacDonald: bass, organ

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Alex MacDonald Edinburgh, UK

Grew up in Kildonan Strath, Sutherland, where I loved the psalms and hymns and the old folk songs my father had learned from his drover grand uncle.Went on to Cash, the Clancys and Corries, Tom Paxton and Dylan. Started playing guitar and writing songs in my teens, but only started recording this century with my rock band sons! Either solo or with my band, I've played all over Scotland. ... more

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