[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1905.
Words and music by Arthur J. Lamb.
Arranged by Arthur M. Cohen.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- A coon was brought into the court
The cop had found him sleeping on the street
“You’re but a common vagrant”, said the justice
“And sixty days is good and sweet”
The coon replied, “Excuse me please
I’ve got a home and I’m a millionaire”
So when the justice said, “Where are you living”
He sang out with a careless air
Chorus
I live in Lazyland
Down by a rippling stream
Anything I want I can always get
When I go to sleep and dream
I’ve automobiles and diamond rings
And palaces rich and grand
It’s always been my permanent residence
I live in Lazyland
- The justice said, “All right for you
And since you do things on so big a scale
I’m satisfied to let you have your freedom
If you’ll put up a thousand bail”
That coon looked sad, that coon looked bad
At first they thought that he was feeling sick
Until he said, “If you must have the money
I’ll go to sleep and get it quick”