I think this must be the song PHJim had in mind when he mentioned “The Ukulele Song” at the top of this thread. I don’t think it has been posted at Mudcat before.


GOT A UKULELE
Words and music by Loudon Wainwright III
As recorded by Loudon Wainwright III on “10 Songs for the New Depression” (2010)

Got a ukulele; now I’m not a ’fraidy-
Cat, in case I get a bout o’ blues.
Any event I get ’em, there’s no way that I’ll let ’em
Bring me down, no way! I’ll just refuse. (Believe me.)

’Cause a ukulele’s like a little baby:
You cradle it in your arms and you sing
A lullaby or ditty when you’re feeling shitty.
It will cheer you up; it’s just the thing.

Life should be bright and breezy; when it’s good, be light and easy.
There’s nothin’ hard or heavy ’bout a uke.
I don’t play bull fiddle; no mystery, no riddle.
Schleppin’ that thing, you look like a kook. (Believe me.)

Four strings made o’ nylon always put a smile on
Anybody’s face who’s feelin’ blue. (Yeah!)
When your mind starts slummin’, start a little strummin’
On your uke; you’re gonna feel brand new. (You gotta believe me.)

[scat verse]

Even though it’s raining, quit a little complaining.
Our roof’s not leakin’; nothin’s gettin’ in.
Yeah, this axe is a hatchet; there’s magic; you can catch it.
On your uke, you can’t lose; you just win.

Life should be bright and breezy; when it’s good, be light and easy.
There’s nothin’ hard or heavy ’bout a uke.
I don’t play the tuba; tubas do it to ya.
Just the thought of tubas makes me puke.

Kind sirs and gentle ladies, grab your ukuleles.
I suspect by now you know my song. (Yeah!)
And the next time that I do it, get down and get into it.
I trust you’ll always sing and strum along. (Gotta believe.)

I got a ukulele; now I’m not a ’fraidy-
Cat, in case I get a bout o’ blues. (Yeah!)
In any event I get ’em, there’s no way that I’ll let ’em
Bring me down; no way! I’ll just refuse. (Believe me, yeah!)