That Dying Rag

A popular song from 1911
Words by Irving Berlin
Music by Bernie Adler


The sheet music:


Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:


Lyrics

  1. Honey, I’m sinkin’ fast
    Soon I will breathe my last
    Fever is very high
    Doctor said I will die
    ‘Fore I take my long, long rest
    Grant me, dear, one request
    ‘Member that afternoon
    We heard that dreamy tune
    When you remarked to me
    Who wrote that melody
    That’s the air I want to share before I die

Refrain:
Honey dear, I must be going I fear
I feel the finish is near
Please bring your cello in here
While I see just play the sweet melody
And honey, call it for me
“That Dying Rag”

  1. Honey, don’t hesitate
    Soon it will be too late
    Heavenly gates I see
    St. Peter’s calling me
    Thank the Lord I’m gwine to go
    Up above, not below
    Right on my tombstone, dear
    Put this inscription clear
    “Buried without disgrace
    Died with a smiling face”
    Honey, say I passed away without a care

Sung here by Laurence Rubenstein: