A Modern Maritime Song
Unlike many songs commonly performed by sea shanty groups, ‘Rattle Them Winches’ is not a traditional shanty from the Age of Sail. Instead, it is a modern maritime song written in the style of the classic working songs once heard aboard sailing ships.
Its lively rhythm, easy chorus and nautical subject matter have helped it become a popular favourite among contemporary shanty groups and festival audiences.
Written by Ken Stephens
The song was written by maritime songwriter Ken Stephens, whose compositions have been widely adopted by sea-music performers throughout Britain.
Although modern in origin, the song successfully captures the atmosphere and humour of traditional sailor songs, leading many listeners to assume it is much older than it really is.
Inspired by Traditional Shanties
‘Rattle Them Winches’ follows the call-and-response structure that characterises many traditional sea shanties. The repetitive chorus encourages participation and makes the song particularly effective when sung by large groups.
Its style reflects the influence of classic working songs sung aboard merchant vessels during the nineteenth century.
The Meaning of the Title
The title refers to winches, mechanical devices used aboard ships for hauling cargo, raising anchors and handling heavy loads.
While traditional sailing vessels relied heavily on manpower and capstans, later ships increasingly used mechanical equipment. The song reflects this aspect of working maritime life.
Work, Cargo and Homeward Bound Sailors
The lyrics focus on cargo handling, shipboard work and the anticipation of returning home after completing a voyage.
These themes are common throughout maritime music, linking the song to the wider tradition of sailor songs even though it is much more recent in origin.
Humour in the Maritime Tradition
Like many traditional sailor songs, ‘Rattle Them Winches’ combines hard work with good humour. The lyrics include jokes, colourful characters and references to life ashore.
This blend of labour and entertainment reflects the role that communal singing has always played within maritime communities.
The Sea Shanty Revival
The song emerged during the modern revival of interest in maritime music. Throughout the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, shanty groups, festivals and maritime events helped create a new audience for both traditional and newly-written nautical songs.
Songs such as ‘Rattle Them Winches’ demonstrate that maritime music remains a living tradition rather than simply a historical curiosity.
Popular with Shanty Crews
The song has been performed by numerous shanty groups and maritime choirs around Britain. Its straightforward structure makes it easy to learn, while the energetic chorus quickly engages audiences.
As a result, it has become a regular feature at sea-shanty festivals and maritime gatherings.
A Modern Addition to the Tradition
Although it lacks the centuries-old history of many traditional shanties, ‘Rattle Them Winches’ demonstrates how maritime music continues to evolve.
It stands alongside newer nautical compositions that successfully capture the spirit of the older sailing-song tradition.
“Rattle them winches, oh!
Rattle them winches and stamp and go!”
Why We Still Sing It
- It successfully recreates the sound and energy of traditional shanties.
- Its chorus makes it ideal for audience participation.
- It celebrates working maritime life in a modern context.
- It shows that sea-song traditions continue to evolve today.
Although modern in origin, ‘Rattle Them Winches’ has earned a place within today's maritime music scene. Its combination of humour, rhythm and nautical atmosphere ensures that it remains a favourite wherever shanties and sea songs are performed.