REAL AMBASSADORS, THE
Dave Brubeck (m) Iola Brubeck (l)

Louis Armstrong and Lambert, Hendricks & Ross 
w The Dave Brubeck Quartet  
Sep 12th 1961


[lh&r]
Who's the real ambassador?
It is evident we represent American society,
Noted for its etiquette, its maners and sobriety,
We have followed protocol with absolute propriety,
We're Yankees to the core!

We're the real ambassadors,
Though we may appear as bores!
We are diplomats
With our proper hats;
Our attire comes habitual,
Along with all the ritual!

The Diplomatic Corps
Has been analysed and riticised by NBC and CBS,
Senators and congressmen are so concerned they can't recess,
The State Department stands and all your coup d'etats have met success;
They caused this great uproar,
Who's the real ambassador,
Yeah, the real ambassador?

Who's the real ambassador?
It is evident we represent American society,
Noted for its etiquette, its maners and sobriety,
We have followed protocol with absolute propriety,
We're Yankees to the core!

We're the real ambassadors,
Though we may appear as bores!
We are diplomats
With our proper hats;
Our attire comes habitual,
Along with all the ritual!

The Diplomatic Corps
Has been analysed and riticised by NBC and CBS,
Senators and congressmen are so concerned they can't recess,
The State Department stands and all your coup d'etats have met success;
They caused this great uproar,
Who's the real ambassador,
Yeah, the real ambassador?

[la]
I'm the real ambassador!
It is evident I was sent by government to take your place,
All I do is play the blues and meet the people face to face;
I'll explain and make it plain I represent the human race,
And don't pretend no more!

Who's the real ambassador?
Certain facts we can ignore;
In my humble way I'm the USA!
Though I represent the government,
The government don't represent
Some policies I'm for!

Oh, we learned to be concerned about the constitutionality,
In our nation, segregation isn't a legality.
Soon our only differences will be in personality,
That's what I stand for!
Who's the real ambassador,
Yes, the real ambassador?

[lh&r]
In his humble way he's the USA;
Though he represents the government,
The government don't represent
Some policies he's for!

[all]
Oh, we learned to be concerned about the constitutionality,
In our nation, segregation isn't a legality.
Soon our only differences will be in personality,
[la]
That's what I stand for!
[all]
I'm (he's) the real ambassador,
Yes, the real ambassador!





(Transcribed by Peter Akers - September 2011)