[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1921
Words and music by Al Bernard and Larry Briers
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- Down in New Orleans
Is a preacher called “Low Down”
Down in New Orleans
On the corners he is found
Preaching night and day
To folks who pass his way
He said, “The good book you must sho’ obey”
And when the law tried to run him in
Brother Low Down he would say
Chorus:
Cap’n Buddy done got me a permit
For to preach in this here town
Cap’n Buddy done told all of you cops
To lay right off of old Low Down
Now all you satin blacks, choc’late browns
When I pass this hat around
If you want to keep from sin
Drop your little nickels in
To help old Brother Low Down
- Down in New Orleans
Is a dance hall called “Blue Moon”
Down in New Orleans
They stiff starch night and coon
He went there one day
And started in to pray
He said, “Old Low Down you must sho’ obey”
And when the folk tried to run him out
Brother Low Down he did say
Chorus:
Cap’n Buddy done got me a permit
For to preach in this here town
Cap’n Buddy done told all of you cops
To have respect for old Low Down
Now all you old pool sharks, hear me right
When I pass this hat tonight
I will shout with all my might
Help me or there’ll be a fight
Yes, with old Brother Low Down
Now all you card players, crap shooters
Bootleggers, too
Listen to me sinners and I’ll tell you what to do
If you disobeys me den you better be afraid
‘Cause you know I totes a razor
And I wields a wicked blade
It costs me more for liquor at the place I gets it at
So don’t you go a droppin’ any lead dimes in my hat
Low Down must have money so he won’t get in a hole
So keep Old Low Down liquored up
And he will save your soul