[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial language. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1915.
Words by Nat. Vincent.
Music by Herman Paley.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- Way down in old Savannah
A yaller gal named Hannah
And her little dusky beau
They have a dance sensation
It is their own creation
Music from an old banjo
Out on the gretna green each starry night
Moon-light bright what a sight
They do some ragging and they do it right
Dance with their heart and their soul
Prance to that old Jelly Roll, so
Chorus
Just start a skipping then do some tripping
Dip from left to right
Then do some sliding and do some gliding
Be sure of your partner, grab him, hug him to you tight
And when you’re steppin’, Just put some pep in
Do that Sugar Bowl Grandma, Granddad, Mother, too
Auntie, Uncle, Brother Lou
Never seem to care or know just when they’re through
Dancing the Jelly Roll
- Whenever music’s playing
I just can’t keep from swaying
To that ever loving’ strain
That Jelly Roll’s entrancing
It has my brain a dancing
Mister, play it once again
Just listen to that syncopated part
My poor heart gives a start
It feels like it was hit by Cupid’s dart
Melody captures my soul
I love that old Jelly Roll, so