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

If you are looking for a toe-tapping and spine-tingling tune that will set your mood right and leave you grooving all night, then Zombie Jamboree by Harry Belafonte is the music you are looking for. This song has gained immense popularity over the years since its release, and it still continues to be a favorite among many music lovers. Zombie Jamboree has been sung by many artists over the years, but the original version by Harry Belafonte still remains unmatched.

About Zombie Jamboree

Zombie Jamboree has an interesting history that dates back to the early 20th century. It is believed that the song has its roots in Trinidad and Tobago, where it was initially written as a folk song under the name of "Jumbie Jamberee." A jumbie is a Caribbean term for a ghost or a spirit, and according to the lyrics, the jumbies rise on the night of the first day of November.

The song was introduced to the American audience by the popular Calypso singer Lord Invader, who recorded his own version of it in the 1930s. In the early 1950s, an arranger and producer named Conrad Eugene Mauge, Jr. rearranged the song and added a new verse to it, which centered around zombies. The new version, now known as "Zombie Jamboree," was recorded by Harry Belafonte in 1956 and went on to become a cult hit in the United States.

The song has a catchy melody and a lively beat that makes it popular among music lovers of all ages. Harry Belafonte's rendition of the song has an infectious rhythm that will get your feet moving and your body swaying. The lyrics are humorous and tongue-in-cheek, and they paint a vivid picture of a community of zombies coming together to party and have a good time.

The song is a popular party favorite, especially during Halloween and other spooky-themed events. It has been featured in various movies and television shows over the years, including The Return of the Living Dead, The Simpsons, and Glee. It has also been covered by many artists, including Jimmy Buffett, Rockapella, and Kingston Trio, among others.

Zombie Jamboree is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among music lovers around the world. It is a testament to the enduring popularity of Calypso music and the legacy of Harry Belafonte, one of the greatest singers of our time.

Why You Should Listen to Zombie Jamboree

If you are a fan of Calypso music or looking for a lively and energetic song that will get you in the party mood, then Zombie Jamboree is a must-listen. It is a classic song with a timeless appeal that will make you want to dance and sing along. The song's lyrics are witty and humorous, and the melody is catchy and upbeat, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.

If you are planning a Halloween party or a spooky-themed event, then Zombie Jamboree should definitely be on your playlist. It is a fun and playful song that captures the spirit of the season, and its infectious beat will keep your guests on their feet all night long.

Alternatively, if you are looking to explore the world of Calypso music and want to discover some of its classics, Zombie Jamboree is a great place to start. It is a prime example of the genre and one of its most popular hits, and it will give you a taste of what Calypso music has to offer.

In short, Zombie Jamboree is a must-listen for anyone who loves music and wants to experience the magic of Calypso music. It is a timeless classic that will leave you feeling happy, energized, and ready to take on the world.

• Release Date: 1962
• Artist: Harry Belafonte