Harry Belafonte Day O Banana Boat Song Lyrics
Harry Belafonte is a legendary American musician and actor, best known for his incredible voice and contributions to the civil rights movement. He has released numerous hit songs throughout his career, including the iconic "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." The song is a classic example of Calypso music, a genre that originated in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 20th century. In this article, we will explore the history and lyrics of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)," and learn more about Harry Belafonte's legacy.
The History of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)"
"Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" was first recorded by Harry Belafonte in 1956, and quickly became a massive hit both in the United States and internationally. The song was written by Irving Burgie, who was inspired by his experiences working on a banana plantation in Jamaica. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a group of workers loading bananas onto a boat, and using the call-and-response format that is typical of Calypso music.
Since its release, "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, and has become a staple of pop culture. It has been covered by countless artists over the years, including The Muppets, The Beach Boys, and even Lil Wayne.
The Lyrics of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)"
The lyrics of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" are simple and repetitive, but incredibly catchy. They tell the story of a group of workers loading bananas onto a boat, and the call-and-response format encourages audience participation.
Verse 1:
Day-O, Day-ay-ay-O
Daylight come and me wan' go home
Day, me say day, me say day, me say day
Me say day, me say day-ay-ay-O
Verse 2:
Work all night on a drink of rum
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Stack banana till de morning come
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Chorus:
Come, Mr. Tally Man, tally me banana
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Come, Mr. Tally Man, tally me banana
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Verse 3:
Lift six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Chorus:
Come, Mr. Tally Man, tally me banana
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Come, Mr. Tally Man, tally me banana
(Daylight come and me wan' go home)
Harry Belafonte's Legacy
Harry Belafonte is more than just a musician and actor – he is a cultural icon and a human rights activist. Throughout his career, he has used his platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice, and has been a vocal supporter of causes such as the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa and the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Belafonte's music has been a powerful force for change, with songs like "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" and "We Shall Overcome" inspiring generations of activists and artists. He has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the National Medal of Arts and the Kennedy Center Honors.
As we celebrate Harry Belafonte Day O Banana Boat Song Lyrics, let us not only enjoy the catchy tune and infectious rhythm of "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)," but also remember the important contributions that Harry Belafonte has made to music and society as a whole.