My Rough and Rowdy Ways

(Jimmie Rodgers)



For years and years I've rambled,

Drank my wines and gambled

But one day I thought I'd settle down

I met a perfect lady

She said she'd be my baby

We built a cottage in the old hometown.



But somehow I can't forget

My good old rambling days

Now the railroad trains are calling me away

Well, I may be rough, I may be wild

I may be tough and out of style

But I can't give up my good old rough and rowdy ways.



--- Instrumental ---



Now sometimes when I meet a bounder

Who knew me when I was a rounder

He grabs my hand and says, ''Boy have a drink.''

We'd go down to the poolroom

Get in the gang and then soon

The daylight comes before I've had a wink.



But somehow I can't forget

My good old rambling days

Now the railroad trains are calling me away

Well, I may be rough, I may be wild

I may be tough and out of style

But I can't give up my good old rough and rowdy ways...