Joshua Rifkin feat. Scott Joplin Lyrics
"Maple Leaf Rag [1899]"

I came from ole Virginy from the county Acomac
I have no wealth to speak of 'cept de clothes upon my back
I can do the country hoe-down I can buck and wing to show down
And while I'm in the notion, just step back and watch my motion

Oh go 'way man, I can hypnotize dis nation
I can shake the earth's foundation wit' the Maple Leaf Rag
Oh go 'way man, just hold you breath a minute
For there's not a stunt that's in it with the Maple Leaf Rag

I dropped into the swellest ball, the great exclusive it
But my face was dead agin me and my trousers didn't fit
But when Maple Leaf was started, my timidity departed
I lost my trepidation, you could taste the admiration

Oh go 'way man, I can hypnotize this nation
I can shake the earth's foundation wit' the Maple Leaf Rag
Oh go 'way man, just hold you breath a minute
For there's not a stunt that's in it with the Maple Leaf Rag

The men were struck wit' jealousy, the razors 'gan to flash
But de ladies gathered 'round me for I'd surely made a mash
The finest belle, she sent a boy to call a coach and four
We rode around a season 'till we both were lost to reason

Oh go 'way man, I can hypnotize this nation
I can shake the earth's foundation wit' the Maple Leaf Rag
Oh go 'way man, just hold you breath a minute
For there's not a stunt that's in it with the Maple Leaf Rag