[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
From the 1908 show “Bandana Land”.
Words by Cecil Mack.
Music by Chris Smith.
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
1. Now who’s dat a knocking
At this hour it’s shocking
To be banging on a lady’s door
Said ‘Lizabeth Thompson
“‘Tain’t a soul but Jim Johnson
I will fool him and pretend
I don’t live here no more
Miss Thompson’s done moved sir
And the fact’s easy proved, sir
‘Cause her trunk and little things ain’t here
Now I’m done explaining
So there’s no need remaining
I am sorry for to tell you sir
Chorus
You’re in the right church but the wrong pew
You’ve got the right neighborhood, that’s true
You’re in the right street and what’s more
You’re in the right house but on the wrong floor
Now when you’re out late, get the name straight
Before you attempt to call
You’re in the right church
But the wrong pew, dat’s all
2. Goodbye if you’re leaving
And I hope you ain’t grieving
Have you any message for your friend?
I know of a lady who will call on your baby
Shall I tell her that you left word
You would call again
Said Jim to Miss Thompson
“You just say that Jim Johnson
Call around to bid a last adieu”
Now what’s that you’re saying
Look here Jim quit your playing
I was joking when I said to you
3. One night while a sleeping
I heard somebody creeping
‘Twas a burglar man had come to call
It cert’ny was funny
‘Cause he thought I had money
And as broke as I was then
He tried to make a haul
I yelled, and said, “Mister
I have got a rich sister
But she’s living on the floor below
To whom it concerns sir
She’s got money to burn, sir
Now you know exactly where to go
Sung here by Fred Feild: