Lyrics:

Down south, the banjos cry to
Deep blues the darkies 'Hidey-hi' to
While moonbeams dance on the bayou
That's how rhythm was born!

They praise the Mighty Forgiver
They wash their sins in the river
Cold water makes 'em all shiver
That's how rhythm was born!

Folks came down to gather around
That Swanee shore
Caught the craze and sang His praise
Cried, 'Why don't you give us some more?'

Down south, the banjos cry to
Deep blues the darkies 'Hidey-hi' to
While moonbeams dance on the bayou
That's how rhythm was born!

Oh, down south, the banjos cry to
Deep blues the darkies 'Hidey-hi' to
While moonbeams dance on the bayou
That's just how rhythm was born!

They praise the Mighty Forgiver
They wash their sins in the river
Cold water always makes 'em all shiver
And that's how rhythm was born!

Folks came down to gather round
That old Swanee shore
Caught the craze and sang His praise
And cried, 'Come on, give us some more!'

You can ask anyone, sir
They'll answer, 'We'll be over yonder!'
That's how rhythm was born!

Banjos cry to
Darkies 'Hidey-hi' to
Dance on the bayou
That's just the reason that rhythm was born!

Praise their Forgiver
Wash the sins in the river
Water makes 'em all shiver
And that's just the reason that rhythm was born!

Ask anyone, sir
They'll be glad to answer you sir
They'll answer, 'We'll be over yonder!'
That's how rhythm was born