Traditional Welsh hymn with a beautiful haunting melody.
Story behind the song
Calon Lan is a Welsh song, the words of which were written in the 19th century by Daniel James (1848-1920) to a tune by John Hughes (18721914).
Calon Lan is unusual among Welsh traditional songs in that the English version of the words is virtually never sung.
Welsh choir "Only Boys Aloud" sang the song during the audition, and later at the final in series six of Britain's Got Talent.
It is also the first track on their 2012 self-titled debut album.
Faryl Smith recorded a version of the song for her debut album, Faryl.
Siobhan Owen recorded a version with voice and harp, featured on her album "Storybook Journey" (2012).
Lyrics
Traditional Welsh lyrics
Nid wy'n gofyn bywyd moethus,
Aur y byd na'i berlau man:
Gofyn wyf am galon hapus,
Calon onest, calon lan.
(Chorus)
Calon lan yn llawn daioni,
Tecach yw na'r lili dlos:
Dim ond calon lan all ganu
Canu'r dydd a chanu'r nos.
Pe dymunwn olud bydol,
Hedyn buan ganddo sydd;
Golud calon lan, rinweddol,
Yn dwyn bythol elw fydd.
Hwyr a bore fy nymuniad
Gwyd i'r nef ar adain can
Ar i Dduw, er mwyn fy Ngheidwad,
Roddi i mi galon lan.
(Chorus)
Alternative words:
Verse 1, line 3: Gofyn wyf am fywyd hapus
Verse 2, line 2: Chwim adenydd iddo sydd
Verse 3, line 2: Esgyn ar adenydd can
Chorus, line 3: Does ond calon lan all ganu