'The Thing' is comparable to what type of Irish song?

[Irish Miss]

Good morning!

Our firm will be publishing a paper in the near future and referencing "The Thing" sung by Phil Harris.

What we know:

- "The Thing" is a hit novelty song by Charles Randolph Grean which received much airplay in 1950.

What we need to know:

- What type of beat/tempo "The Thing" comprises;

- What type of Irish song could it be equated to (i.e., jig, reel, slide, etc.); and

- Any additional info/history you could provide

A prompt response is truly appreciated. We're hoping for an answer within the next couple of hours.

Thank you!

[reinganum]

I hope this is not too late....

I have a copy of Phil Harris's "Thing" in my collection and the tune is similar to The Lincolnshire Poacher (and I would not be surprised if there were not a similar Irish folk tune).
Phil sings it more or less in common time but the tune is more usually associated with a six-eight rhythm.

[Irish Miss]

Thanks so much! I also found a folk recording artist who said the song could be equated to a jig. The six-eight rhythm is very helpful. Appreciate your response.