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I knew a man Bojangles and he danced for you
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In worn out shoes
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With silver hair a ragged shirt and baggy pants
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The old soft shoe
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He jumped so high, jumped so high
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Then he'd lightly touch down.
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Mr. Bojangles Mr. Bojangles Mr. Bojangles dance
I met him in a cell in New Orleans I was down and out
He looked to me to be the eyes of age as he spoke right out
He talked of life, talked of life, he laughed, slapped his leg a step
(Chorus)
He said his name Bojangles then he danced a licked across the cell
He grabbed his pants, a better stance, o he jumped so hi, & he clicked his heels
He let go a laugh, let go a laugh, shook back his clothes all around
(Chorus)
He danced for those at minstrel shows & county fairs, throughout the south
He spoke with tears of 15 years how his dog and him traveled about
His dog up and died, up and died, after 20 years he still grieves
(Chorus)
He said I dance now at every chance in honky tonks for drinks and tips
But most the time I spend behind these county bars cause I drinks a bit
He shook his head, and as he shook his head I heard someone ask him please
(Chorus)