"Mister Christopher Columbus; he used rhythm as a compass."
Oh were it only true! Suppose ole' politically incorrect, imperialistic Chris Columbus had actually been using the right side of his brain (i.e., the music side) when he sailed the oceans blue. Perhaps he would have found land and embraced the peoples there, their culture, their music and language - instead of what happened. We need more musicians and artists to rule the world - but then, perhaps they are too wise to try. There is a great version of this song with considerably saltier lyrics.
Fletcher Henderson's non-lyrical version is the one that is played most. (In a world of underplayed, fabulous songs.)
CHORUS
Mister Christopher Columbus
Sailed the sea without a compass
When his men began a rumpus
Up spoke, Christopher Columbus
"There is land somewhere
Until we get there,
We will not go wrong,
If we sing, "Swing a Song"
"Since the world is round,
We'll be safe and sound
Til our goal is found,
We'll just keep rhythm bound."
Soon the crew was makin merry
Then came a yell, "Let's drink to Isabelle!
Hum, bring the rum, Ho Hum!"
No more mutiny,
What a time at sea
With di-plo-ma-cy
Christy made his-to-ry
Mister Christopher Columbus
He used rhythm as a compass
Music ended all the rumpus
Wise old Christopher Columbus.
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