Taylor (1992) observes that this reel “probably ranks among the top twenty most widely known Irish reels.” It is closely associated with Donegal fiddler John Doherty, who is widely believed to have composed it. The tune is credited to Doherty by several sources, including Larry McCullough (Whistle Tutor), Luke O’Malley (Collection of Irish Music, 1976), and Daniel Michael Collins in the sleeve notes of the Paddy Carty/Mick O’Connor LP Traditional Music of Ireland, where fiddler Hugh Gillespie is cited as confirming Doherty’s authorship. The reel was later popularized by Galway accordionist Joe Cooley—after whom it is sometimes named—and also gained prominence through the performances of the influential group Planxty, as noted by Caoimhín Mac Aoidh and Peter Wood.