[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
Monkey-Man Blues, 1919
words and music by Lukie Johnson
The sheet music:
Accompaniment:
Lyrics
1. Down in the jungles far away
Two monks were talking one day
It surely was a funny sight
To see the tricks that they would play
One monkey he was making love
And trying all the time
Just to steal the heart
Of someone’s little baby mine
And when they’d meet each day
To her he’d always say
Chorus
Ev’rything I tell you
Don’t run and tell your monkey man
When I want to love you
Don’t run and tell your monkey man
You know I’m wild about you
And I love you with a heart that’s true
So, won’t you let me steal you babe
‘Cause you’re such a pretty monkey
And my heart beats true for you
Every night we’ll spoon dear
Underneath the bamboo tree
While the moon is shining down
So grand in monkey land
In my arms I’ll hold you dear
And then I’ll never have to fear
That everything I tell you
You’ll run and tell your monkey man
2. Each night he’d tell her of his love
He said you’re breaking my heart
He told her he would treat her kind
And vowed from her he’d never part
He promised her a honeymoon
The best in jungle land
If she’d only let him steal her
From her monkey man
And as she’d cuddle near
He’d whisper in her ear
Sung here by Fred Feild: