Welsh legend Dafydd Iwan has released a new book.

The former Gwynedd councillor who grew up in Bala says the book shines a light on some of this most notorious songs.

Rhywle fel Hyn, published as part of Gwasg Carreg Gwalch’s ‘Atgofion drwy Ganeuon’ range, takes readers on a journey through history of some of the singer-songwriter’s well-known songs.

According to Gwasg Carreg Gwalch, the book is “a collection of stories that show where and why he composed his songs”.

Some of Dafydd’s songs have became anthems over the years.

Yma o Hyd is regularly heard at Stradey Park.

They have also been heard in more unexpected palces, such as a battlefield in Kosovo.

In his political songs, he assumes the role of the old composers of ballads.

Some of his love songs are now modern-day folk songs.

In his satirical songs, he bridges Jac Glan y Gors and Harri Webb.

He is timeless and contemporary at the same time.

In this book he reveals the stories behind the composition of many of his songs, some well known, others less familiar, and he doesn’t shy away from mentioning darker periods in his life.

His honesty shines through.

Discussing Rhywle fel Hyn, Dafydd Iwan said: “Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to discuss the background of some of my songs, but my intention in this particular book is to try to put some of my songs (including some lesser known) into their contexts, and to attribute them as much as I can to my life experiences, Wales and the world and its people, hoping that the memories and comments will be of interest to someone somewhere.”