intro - 4 bars
verse 1
Down the way where the nights are gay
And the sun shines daily on the mountain top
I took a trip on a sailing ship
And when I reached Jamaica I made a stop.
chorus
But I'm sad to say I'm on my way,
Won't be back for many a day.
My heart is down, my head is turning around,
I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.
(note: extra bar)
verse 2
Sounds of laughter everywhere
And the dancing girls swaying to and fro.
I must declare, my heart is there,
Though I've been from Maine to Mexico.
chorus
But I'm sad to say I'm on my way,
Won't be back for many a day.
My heart is down, my head is turning around,
I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.
instrumental
verse 3
Down at the market you can hear
Ladies cry out while on their heads they bear
Ackee, rice, saltfish are nice,
And the rum is fine any time of year.
chorus
But I'm sad to say I'm on my way,
Won't be back for many a day.
My heart is down, my head is turning around,
I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.
(note: extra bar)
repeat chorus
But I'm sad to say I'm on my way,
Won't be back for many a day.
My heart is down, my head is turning around,
I had to leave a little girl in Kingston town.
instrumental outro