DIXIELAND BAND, THE
Bernie Hanighen (m) Johnny Mercer (l)  1935

as recorded by Benny Goodman & his Orchestra (vocal - Helen Ward)  
January 15th 1935 
New York

also recorded by -
Kay Starr '45
Bing Crosby '50
Teresa Brewer '57


D'y'ever hear the story of The Dixieland Band?
Only had five pieces and the music was grand!
They had a piano and a clarinet,
Only thing they needed was a second cornet,
And that's what lead to the ruin, ruin of The Dixieland Band!

When the folks would holler for the Maple Leaf Rag,
They would get to swingin' but the trumpet would drag.
They had to keep him 'cause he played so sweet,
But they needed someone who could give them a beat,
Someone who's born with the rhythm, rhythm of The Dixieland Band.

He'd play so sweetly, (music), 'stead o' playin', (music),
He'd play so sweetly, (music), they'd be sayin', (music).

Sure enough he got 'em so they couldn't play right,
Finally he digged 'em on a Saturday night.
He hit a note that was off the chord,
Apoplexy got 'em and they went to the Lord!
And that is the pitiful story, the story of The Dixieland Band.

Now they're up in heaven and they're happy at last,
'Cause they found a trumpet man who really can blast!
The way he swings 'em is an awful shame,
He can really do it - Gabriel is his name!
And now folks, here is a sample, listen to The Dixieland Band.

If you hear a trumpet start to play,
Don't you be afraid it's the Judgement Day!
'Cause it's just Mister Gabriel soundin' his A,
And The Dixieland Band is fixin' to play!



(Transcribed by Peter Akers - March 2013)