[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1913.
Words and music by Chas. L. Johnson.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
1. Look! there’s Professor Melrose Jackson
Fiddle in his hand, he’s the leader man
Of Jackson’s Ragtime Band
Swell coons with ladies promenadin’
Up and down the hall
They’ve come to Miss Lucinda’s ragtime ball
Hear Professor call
“Get partners, one and all”
Chorus
Goodness, gracious, Lordy me
Listen to that ragtime melody
See those coons a-prancin’
With their babies dancin’
Up and down the hall
Oh, Professor, don’t you dare to stop
Keep the music goin’ till we drop
Just keep on playin’ while we’re swayin’
At Miss Lucinda’s ragtime ball
2. Barbers and Pullman Porters
My, but don’t those coons look fine
See their faces shine
As they walk down the line
Talk ’bout your coontown’s swell receptions
This one beats them all
Some class to Miss Lucinda’s ragtime ball
Hear that music play
Just watch those swell coons sway
Sung here by Fred Feild: