Well, it could be like that, but generally, it is like a work chant, with the leader singing an improvised phrase, and the group following with a repeated phrase like this:
L)Black Betty's in the bottom
G)Let your hammer ring
L)Black Betty's in the bottom
G)Let your hammer ring

L)Black Betty's got a baby,
G)Let Your hammer ring
L)Damn thing's gone crazy
G)Let your hammer ring

A lot of gospel stuff works that way too-"John, the Revelator" comes to mind--