The words are given in the notes to the CD "Meeting In The Air: Songs of the Carter Family sung and played by Jim Watson, Tommy Thompson & Mike Craver of the Original Red Clay Ramblers" (on CD as Barker/Sapsucker Records 2326 and on LP as Flying Fish FF 219)



WHILE THE BAND IS PLAYING DIXIE
(Joseph F. Hortiz)

It was on a day that soldiers wrote a line to those they loved
To mothers, wives and sweethearts far away
When a fair haired boy sat dreaming of a far-off southern town
Of a dark-haired maid who's waiting day by day


(chorus)
While the band is playing Dixie, I'm humming "Home Sweet Home"
It takes me back to Georgia though I'm far across the foam
Once again beside the river with my Mary dear I'll roam
While the band is playing Dixie, I'm humming "Home Sweet Home"


That night when all were sleeping came the bugle call to arms
With flashing eyes they plunged into the fray
And among the first to give his life up for the land he loved
Was the boy who dreamed of Dixie far away

(chorus)


They found it in his pocket, a bloodstained little note
A bullet hole had pierced it through and through
It began with "Darlin' Mary, if I don't come back again
Just remember that my last thoughts were of you

(chorus)

Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home
Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home



Published by Melody Lane Music obo Copper Creek Music BMI






Have fun with it!