"Zowel toen als daarvoor, hoorde of zag men geen ridder, die zo heldhaftig ten strijde trok, als de hertog" is the modern Dutch/Flemish translation of the (whispered) lyrics at the end of the song. These lines were written in 1288 by Jan Heelu, praising Duke Jan van Brabants' valiant behaviour at the battle of Woeringen of that same year. Historians claim that the Duke actually spoke the quoted words which are translated to English in this lyric, before engaging into battle. Duke Jan van Brabant lived up to what most people have in mind of chivalry. Not only personally confronting and taking out foes at the front line but also appreciating song and dance, writing poems and loving…beer. To this day there are beers in Holland and Belgium who bear his name, even a merry folk tune still is sung to his name. I always honoured this historical figure by raising a glass (or two), now I felt the time was right to pay tribute through a song.”

BRABANTIA

Bravery displayed by each side
None seeked shelter, none did hide
Their Faces directed towards foe
Causing wounds with every Blow

Neither Then or Before
Was heard of such a Man
The Duke of Brabant brave in War
Chivalry still treasured then

Een Standaard van Goud en Zwart
Schitterend in de Namiddagzon
Men streed met Leeuwenhart
Bij Woeringen waar de Hertog won

A Banner of Black and Gold
Rising above the Battlefield
For Friend and Foe to Behold
At Woeringen their fate was sealed

"All of Thee stay at my Side,
don’t withdraw, cover my Flanks
Frontal Assaults I will Fight
But Kill me if I break our ranks"
Noch doen, noch eer en wert vernomen
Riddere en geen, noch oec gesien,

Soe condichlike ten wige wert tien,
Alse die Hertoge, alse die Hertoge.