I like Danny Boy as well (it's pretty and a very easy melody to play for beginning irish flautists like me) but I always throw the trivia I know about it out to people whenever I get the chance. From what I understand the guy who wrote it was basically trying to cash in on the fad at the time of Irish tunes and Irish tenors. "Irish sounding songs are really big right now! I better write one quick to take advantage!" I can understand the Irish being irritated at it being requested above all else.

I wish that pub was in Dallas! I'd love a chance to belt out my favorite song, The Foggy Dew, for a free Guinness!