Harry Belafonte Day O The Banana Boat Song Beetlejuice Lyrics
Harry Belafonte is a Jamaican-American singer, songwriter, and actor who is best known for popularizing Caribbean music in the United States. His hit song "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" is a classic that has been played at parties and events for decades. This article is dedicated to all things Harry Belafonte, his iconic song, and the memorable lyrics from the movie Beetlejuice.
Who is Harry Belafonte?
Harry Belafonte was born on March 1, 1927, in Harlem, New York. His mother was Jamaican, and his father was Martinican. Growing up, Belafonte was exposed to a variety of musical genres, including jazz, blues, and folk music. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and, after his discharge, began performing in New York City clubs. He soon gained popularity for his unique style, which blended traditional Caribbean music with American jazz and pop.
Over the years, Belafonte has released numerous albums and has won many awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He is also known for his humanitarian work and activism, particularly in the areas of civil rights and social justice.
Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)
"Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" is a traditional Jamaican folk song that was popularized by Harry Belafonte in the 1950s. The song is about the backbreaking work of dockworkers who load bananas onto ships. The workers would sing the song to keep their spirits up during the long, tedious shifts.
Belafonte's version of the song became a massive hit in the United States and helped to popularize Caribbean music in the country. The song has since been covered by many other artists and has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials.
Beetlejuice Lyrics
The 1988 movie Beetlejuice, directed by Tim Burton, features a memorable scene in which the characters dance to "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)." The scene has become a cultural icon and has helped to keep Belafonte's music relevant to younger generations.
Here are the lyrics to the version of the song used in the movie:
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
Daylight come and me wan' go home
Work all night on a drink of rum
Daylight come and me wan' go home
Stack banana till the morning come
Daylight come and me wan' go home
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
In Conclusion
Harry Belafonte's "Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)" is a classic tune that has stood the test of time. Whether you know it from the original version or from the memorable scene in Beetlejuice, the song is sure to get you up and dancing. So the next time you hear "Day-o, day-ay-ay-o," don't be afraid to let loose and sing along.