[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1912.
Words by Lew Brown.
Music by Albert Von Tilzer.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- Honey, I feel lonely, honey, I feel blue
Ev’rything seems kind of lonesome, too
Hear those darkies singing
Hear them banjos ringing
Makes me think of you Kentucky Sue
I can see your mammy standing at the cabin door
Don’t forget to tell her that I’m coming back once more
‘Cause you know Kentucky is the place that I adore
And there I long to be
Refrain
I’m going back, I’m going back
I’m going back to my home
In old Kentucky, where the green grass is blue
The girls there are true
You see the darkies dancing
While they’re singing songs for you
I want to hear, I want to hear
The preacher man there say
Do you promise to obey? (Oh, say!)
I’d promise anything, the way I feel today
I’m coming, I’m coming
Back to you my gal so true
Kentucky, you lucky, Kentucky Sue
- I’ve been saving kisses, and some loving, too
You can have them all Kentucky Sue
When you hear me singing
Then you’ll know I’m bringing
Back a little wedding band for you
Ev’ry day you’ve been away from me seems ’bout a year
That’s the reason why I’m always longing for you dear
Taint no use in wishing that I had you with me here
I’ll start for home today