This song is obviously related:


IT MUST BE SWELL (TO BE LAYING OUT DEAD)
As recorded by Alex Bartha and His Hotel Traymore Orchestra, 1932

INTRO: Ev'rything is topsy-turvy with the world today.
All the world is restless since depression came our way.
So last night I went to sleep and dreamed that I had died.
My weary body felt at ease, and to myself I cried:

1. Look at the flowers; they're certainly sweet.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
And look at the people all linin' the street.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
There's a lot of consolation riding peacefully
Past the guy that stole my wife; I know he envies me.
And look at the horses; oh, boy, what a treat!
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.

2. Look at the mourners; oh, don't they look grand?
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
That elegant music that's played by the band,
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
There's the butcher and the baker standing in their door.
I won't have to worry how to dodge them anymore.
And look at the landlord just shakin' his head.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.

3. Look at my sweetheart; she's classy in red.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
And look at her boyfriend, that big empty head.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
There's the boss I used to have; I see his ingrown face.
Gee, I'm glad he's worried 'cause no one can take my place.
And look at the chis'lers; they're goin' to starve.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.

4. Look at the neighbors; they keep blabberin' on.
That's why it's swell to be layin' out dead.
And look at the kinfolks; they'll starve when I'm gone.
It sure is swell to be layin' out dead.
I won't have to worry 'bout a job or food to eat.
I won't have to worry whether shoes are on my feet.
And look at the poor folks that's beggin' for bread.
Oh, boy, it's swell to be layin' out dead.


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This recording appears on 2 CDs:
"Halloween Classics: Songs that Scared the Bloomers Off Your Great Grandma"
"Poor Man's Heaven: Blues and Tales of the Great Depression"