About the song
Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat (Day-O)”: A Calypso Classic
Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat (Day-O)” is an iconic piece of music that transcended cultural boundaries to become a global phenomenon. Released in 1956, the song propelled Belafonte to international stardom and introduced the world to the vibrant rhythms and infectious energy of calypso music.
Originally a Jamaican folk song, “Banana Boat (Day-O)” was transformed into a pop sensation through Belafonte’s charismatic performance and the song’s infectious melody. The lyrics, a call-and-response chant about the arduous work of loading bananas onto ships, are infused with a sense of communal spirit and rhythmic vitality. Belafonte’s powerful voice and energetic delivery brought the song to life, capturing the essence of Caribbean life and culture.
Beyond its musical appeal, “Banana Boat (Day-O)” played a significant role in breaking down racial barriers. Belafonte, a Black artist, achieved unprecedented success in the mainstream music industry, challenging racial stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of Black performers. The song’s popularity helped to introduce audiences to the rich musical traditions of the Caribbean and contributed to the growing interest in world music.
The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its universal appeal. It has been covered by countless artists, sampled in numerous recordings, and featured in films and television shows. “Banana Boat (Day-O)” continues to be a beloved anthem of joy, celebration, and cultural exchange.
Video
Lyrics
“Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)”
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day, me say day, me say day
Me say day, me say day-o
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Work all night on a drink of rum
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Stack banana till de morning come
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Come, Mister tally man, tally me banana
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Come, Mister tally man, tally me banana
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Lift six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day-o
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day, me say day, me say day, me say day, me say day
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
A beautiful bunch o’ ripe banana
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Hide the deadly black tarantula
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Lift six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Six foot, seven foot, eight foot bunch
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day-o
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day, me say day, me say day, me say day, me say day
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Come, Mister tally man, tally me banana
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Come, Mister tally man, tally me banana
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day-o, day-o
Daylight come and me wan’ go home
Day, me say day, me say day, me say day
Me say day, me say day-o
Daylight come and me wan’ go home