Hilo Boys Hilo

Interesting Facts about the Hilo Boys Hilo

“Hilo Boys Hilo” is another shanty with the word “Hilo”. Negro origin shanty used at halyards. Like usually happen in Negro and cotton-Hoosier’s song, after the first few regulation verses shantyman would have to extemporize, since such shanties told no familiar story; However, in Stan Hugill’s version, which he has from Old Smith of Tobago, a one-time shipmate, a short tale is told.

The source of this sea shanty

The music: “Shanties from the Seven Seas” by Stan Hugill (1st ed p 255).

The lyrics:  “Shanties from the Seven Seas” by Stan Hugill (1st ed p 255).

The Record of the Hilo Boys Hilo

You also can find this record on my YouTube channel here or directly listen below. Additionally, if you want to share your opinion about the record or share your opinion you can do it in my Facebook forum here, or leave a comment at the bottom of this blog article.

Hilo Boys Hilo - Halyard Shanty

The musical notation

Hilo Boys Hilo - music notation

The full lyrics

Hilo Boys Hilo

A black bird sat in a goose-berry tree,
– HI-lo, boys, HI-lo!
A ping-a-pon-gin’ on his ol’ ban-jee,
– Oh, Hilo, somebody Hilo!

* 2 *

The blackbird sang unto the crow,
I’ll soon be takin’ you in tow,

* 3 *

Said the blackbird to the crow,
Come down below with the whole ‘yer crew.

* 4 *

The crow flew down to Mobile Town,
Met a high yellar gal called Sally Brown.

* 5 *

Them yaller gals we do adore,
They’ll drink ye skint an’ ask for more.

* 6 *

The blackbird sang the crow said ‘caw’.
Got ter set this sail by half pas’ four.

* 7 *

High an’ dry we’ll hoist her high,
Hoist her high for a bulgine pie.

Related to this sea shanty

Hilo Johnny Brown

Blow The Man Down (E)

Blow The Man Down (F)

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