YANGTSE RIVER SHANTY

picture of Dick Dufresne

Dick Dufresne
Kennebunkport, Maine

Chorus: 
'Wa-ay, boys, a-way-oh!
Blow me down this Yangtse River.
Away, boys, lift and walk away!

My lotus lady I'll see no more
Refrain: 'Way, boys, a-way-oh!
Since I left her on the China shore
Refrain: Away, boys, lift and walk away!

When we first met, she was like a queen...
Prettiest little thing that I'd ever seen...

She'd flashing eyes and long black hair...
All I could do was stand and stare...

I bought her silks and a golden comb...
Trouble's over now, the anchor's home...

I blowed my silver for to win her...
Now there's nothing left but donkey's dinner...

We're homeward bound, cookie's in the galley...
Farewell, Young Moon of the Yangtse valley...

(lyrics from Sailor With Banjo by Hamish Maclaren ©1930;
adapted for singing by Charlie Ipcar ©1992)

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