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The traditional English song "Greensleeves" was composed in its entirety by Henry VIII, the much married King of England. There is some speculation as to whether the words were inspired by Katherine of Aragon or Ann Boleyn, but although the first mention of the song in recorded history dates only from 1580, some 33 years after Henry's death, there is now no real doubt over its provenance.
As with many folk songs, the melody is far superior to the words. It is known variously as "My Ladye Greensleeves" or "Ladye Greensleeves" but usually as just "Greensleeves."
The song has been recorded numerous times over the years including by Jazz artists, but perhaps most memorably (with the lyrics suitably amended) in an advertisement for Dreamland Electric Blankets. (thanks, Alexander Baron - London, England, for all above)
This is a plea from a man to his bored mistress. He is still enraptured by her but she appears not to love him anymore.
William Shakespeare mentions this song by name twice in The Merry Wives of Windsor. In Act Two, "I would have sworn his disposition would have gone to the truth of his words; but they do no more adhere and keep place together than the Hundredth Psalm to the tune of 'Green Sleeves' "; and in Act Five, "Let the sky rain potatoes; let it thunder to the tune of 'Green Sleeves.' Songfacts
