[WARNING: This song contains antiquated racial stereotypes. It is presented here for historical and educational purposes only.]
A popular song from 1921
Words and music by Irving Berlin
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:
Lyrics
- So Mammy’s curly head is feeling blue
So many troubles, don’t know what to do
Feels like he wants to cry
And what is the reason?
All just because the little white boy said
“Can’t get to heaven with a kinky head”
White boy done tole a lie
Refrain
There’s a corner up in Heaven
That the angels put aside
Just for little pickaninnies
And the gates are open wide
Pickaninny will be welcome
They’ll be glad to have him, too
Plenty angels up in Heaven
Just as black as you
There’s a corner up in Heaven
Just for you
- The angels brought you in the blackest night
And I believe they meant to make you white
Just like the winter snows
But you needn’t worry
Although they made my honey black as coal
A snow-white lily blossoms in your soul
That’s why your Mammy knows