[Warning: these lyrics contain the N-word. No hatred intended. This song is presented in its original form as a part of music history.]
a darkey misunderstanding from 1896
words and music by Ernest Hogan
This song was created by an African-American. The use of the word “coon” caught on and became a new song genre.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment:
Lyrics
1. Talk about a coon a-having trouble
I think I have enough of ma own
It’s all about ma Lucy Janey Stubbles
And she has caused my heart to mourn
Thar’s another coon barber from Virginia
In soci’ty he’s the leader of the day
And now ma honey gal is gwine to quit me
Yes she’s gone and drove this coon away
She’d no excuse, to turn me loose
I’ve been abused, I’m all confused
Cause these words she did say
Chorus
All coons look alike to me
I’ve got another beau, you see
And he’s just as good to me
As you, nig! ever tried to be
He spends his money free
I know we can’t agree
So, I don’t like you no how
All coons look alike to me
2. Never said a word to hurt her feelings
I always bou’t her presents by the score
And now my brain with sorrow am a-reeling
Cause she won’t accept them any more
If I treated her wrong she may have loved me
Like all the rest she’s gone and let me down
If I’m lucky I’m a-gwine to catch my policy
And win my sweet thing way from town
For I’m worried, Yes, I’m desp’rate
I’ve been Jonahed, and I’ll get dang’rous
If these words she says to me
Sung here by Fred Feild: