Harry Belafonte

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
It was a Zombie Jamboree
Took place in a New York cemetery
It was a Zombie Jamboree
Took place in a New York cemetery
Zombies from all parts of the Island
Some of them was a great Calypsonians
Although the season was Carnival
We get together in bacchanal
And they singing

[Chorus]
Back to back, belly to belly
I don't give a damn, I done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie Jamboree
I hear ya talkin'
Back to back, belly to belly
Don't give a damn, done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie Jamboree

[Verse 2]
One female Zombie wouldn't behave
See how she jumping out of the grave
In one hand a quarter rum
In the other hand she knocking Congo drum
Believe singer start to make his rhyme
The Zombies are racking their bones in thyme
One bystander had this to say
It was a pleasure to see the Zombies break away
And they're singing
[Chorus]
Back to back, belly to belly
Don't give a damn, done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie Jamboree, oh

[Verse 3]
I goin' talk to Miss Brigit Bardot
And tell her "Miss Bardot take it slow"
All the men think they're Casanova
When they see that she's bare foot all over
Even old men out into beaker
Find their hearts getting weaker and weaker
So I goin' to ask her for your sake and mine
At least to wear her earrings part at the time
And I'm singing

[Chorus]
Back to back, belly to belly
Don't give a damn, done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie Jamboree, oh

[Verse 4]
A lot of world leaders talkin' 'bout war
And I'm afraid they're going too far
So it's up to us, you and me
To put an end to catastrophe
We must appeal to their goodness of heart
And ask them to pitch in and please do their part
'Cause if this atomic war begin
They won't even have a part to pitch in
And we'll be singing
[Chorus]
Back to back, belly to belly
Don't give a damn, done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie Jamboree
I hear ya talkin'
Back to back, belly to belly
Don't give a damn, done dead already
Uh-oh, back to back, belly to belly
At the Zombie, Zombie JamboreeEmbed

Get ready to experience the captivating rhythms, cheerful lyrics, and upbeat melodies of "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" by the legendary Harry Belafonte, the Jamaican-American musician, actor, and social activist. As a content writer and a music expert, I am thrilled to introduce you to one of the all-time greatest and most entertaining songs of the calypso genre. Let's dive into the world of "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" and discover what makes it so unique and unforgettable.

About Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)

"Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" is a calypso song with a distinct Caribbean flavor that was originally written and recorded by Trinidadian calypsonian Conrad Eugene Mauge Jr., better known as Lord Intruder, in the late 1930s. The song tells the tale of a group of zombies that rise from their graves to join in a lively jamboree, where they sing, dance, and have a great time until the sun comes up and they return to their graves. Harry Belafonte, one of the pioneers of bringing calypso music to the mainstream audience, covered the song in 1953 as part of his "Calypso" album, which became one of the best-selling albums of all time and skyrocketed Belafonte's career to international fame.

With its catchy melody, playful lyrics, and infectious rhythm, "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" quickly became a crowd-pleaser and a classic of the calypso genre. The song features a joyful chorus that invites everyone to join the party and dance along with the zombies:

"Back to back, belly to belly Well, I don't give a damn 'cause I'm stone dead already!"

One of the most distinctive features of the song is its use of onomatopoeic sound effects that mimic the sounds of an orchestra, including trumpets, bass, bongos, and others. The mix of traditional calypso rhythms with modern musical elements creates a unique and dynamic sound that is sure to get you moving and grooving.

"Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including The Kingston Trio, Rockapella, and Harry's daughter, Shari Belafonte, among others. The song has also been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture and ensuring its legacy for generations to come.

Why You Should Listen to Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)

Whether you're a fan of calypso, world music, or just love to dance and have fun, "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" is a must-listen song that will lift your spirits and brighten your day. The song's infectious energy, catchy tunes, and lively beats are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, working out, or just need a pick-me-up.

Besides its musical qualities, "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" also tells a playful story that speaks to our collective fascination with zombies and the afterlife. The song's cheerful tone and humorous lyrics remind us not to take life too seriously and to enjoy the moment while we can. As Harry Belafonte once said, "Music is a therapy. It is a communication far more powerful than words, far more immediate, far more efficient."

In a world where stress, anxiety, and negativity seem to be prevalent, "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" provides a much-needed escape into a joyful and carefree world where anything is possible. So why not put on your dancing shoes, turn up the volume, and let Harry Belafonte and his zombies take you on a wild ride that you won't forget anytime soon?

In the end, "Zombie Jamboree (Back to Back)" is more than just a song. It's a celebration of life, love, and happiness that reminds us of the power of music to bring people together and create unforgettable moments that will last a lifetime. So go ahead, give it a listen, and let the rhythm move you.

• Release Date: 1956
• Artist: Harry Belafonte