Mr. Bojangles

[Verse 1]

I knew a man Bojangles and he'd dance for you

In worn-out shoes

With silver hair, a ragged shirt and baggy pants

The old soft shoe

He'd jump so high, he'd jump so high

Then he'd lightly touch down

[Verse 2]

I met him in a cell in New Orleans

I was down and out

He looked to me to be the very eyes of age

As he spoke right out

He talked of life, talked of life

Laughed, slapped his leg in step

[Verse 3]

He said the name Bojangles and he danced a lick

Across the cell

He grabbed his pants, a better stance and he jumped up high

Clicked his heels

He let go a laugh, let go a laugh

Shook back his clothes all around

[Chorus]

Mr. Bojangles

Mr. Bojangles

Mr. Bojangles, dance

[Verse 4]

He danced with those at minstrel shows and county fairs

Throughout the South

He spoke with tears of fifteen years of how his dog and him

Had traveled about

His dog up and died, he up and died

After twenty years, he still grieves

[Verse 5]

He said, "I dance now at every chance at honky-tonks

For drinks and tips

But most of time I spend behind these country bars

'Cause I drinks a bit"

He shook his head, and as he shook his head

I heard someone ask please

[Chorus]

Mr. Bojangles

Mr. Bojangles

Mr. Bojangles, dance