The Meaning Behind The Song: When It’s Sleepy Time Down South by Ethel Waters
The pale moon shining on the fields below
Darkies croonin’ songs soft and low
You needn’t tell me, folks, because I know
That it’s sleepy time down south
Soft wind blowin’ through the pinewood trees
Folks down there live a life of years
And when mammy falls down on her poor tired knees
It’s sleepy time down south
The steamboats on the river are comin’ and goin’
Splashin’ the night away
You can hear a banjo’s ringin’, even hear the darkies singin’
Every day until the break of day
Dear old southland, with your dreamy song
Take me back there where I belong
How I’d love to be in my mammy’s arms
When it’s sleepy time down south
The steamboats on the river, comin’, goin’
Splashin’ the night away
Why, you can hear the banjo’s ringin’
Can’t you hear the darkies singin’?
And we play ’til the break of day
Dear old southland, with your dreamy song
Take me back down there where I know I belong
Just so once more mammy can hold me in her arms
When it’s sleepy time a-way down south
Album title: 1931-1934 (1993)
Credits
Written By Clarence Muse, Leon René & Otis René
Release Date August 20, 1934
Tags
R&BJazzBlues
| Title | When It’s Sleepy Time Down South |
|---|---|
| Artist | Ethel Waters |
| Writer/Composer | Clarence Muse, Leon René & Otis René |
| Album | 1931-1934 (1993) |
| Release Date | August 20, 1934 |
| Genre | R&B, Jazz, Blues |
When It’s Sleepy Time Down South, performed by Ethel Waters, is a beautiful song that perfectly captures the essence and charm of the Southern United States. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the South, with its pale moon shining on the fields, darkies crooning songs, and a soft wind blowing through pinewood trees. The song exudes a sense of tranquility and peacefulness, often associated with the slower pace of life in the Southern region.
For me, this song holds a deep personal meaning. As a child, I grew up in a small town in the South, surrounded by open fields and the gentle rustling of the wind. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, and the days were filled with endless possibilities. Whenever I listen to When It’s Sleepy Time Down South, I am transported back to those carefree days of my childhood, filled with innocence and wonder.
The lyrics speak of mammy falling down on her tired knees, emphasizing the importance of family and the comfort of a mother’s embrace. This resonates with me deeply, as my own mother played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. The song reminds me of the countless nights she spent comforting me and lulling me to sleep. It encapsulates the warmth and love that only a mother can provide.
The mention of steamboats on the river adds another layer of nostalgia and romanticism to the song. The image of boats coming and going, splashing the night away, evokes a sense of adventure and exploration. It reminds me of the rich history and vibrant culture of the South, with its rivers serving as vital transportation routes in the past. There is a certain charm to the sound of banjos ringing and darkies singing, capturing the cultural heritage and musical traditions of the region.
When It’s Sleepy Time Down South is a timeless song that encapsulates the beauty and allure of the Southern United States. It takes listeners on a journey through the peaceful countryside, where time slows down, and life is lived at its own pace. The lyrics, combined with Ethel Waters’ soulful voice, create a sense of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time.
Listening to this song, I am reminded of the importance of cherishing our roots and embracing the traditions that have shaped us. It serves as a reminder to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and hold onto the memories that bring us joy. When It’s Sleepy Time Down South captures the essence of the South and transports listeners to a place where dreams and melodies intertwine.
In conclusion, the song When It’s Sleepy Time Down South holds a powerful meaning that goes beyond its soothing melody and soulful lyrics. It is a tribute to the beauty and charm of the Southern United States, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time. Listening to this song is like being transported to a place where the moon shines on the fields, where songs are sung softly and the wind whispers through pinewood trees. It is a beautiful reminder to cherish our roots and embrace the traditions that have shaped us.
