I'D Rather Lead A Band

I haven't ambitions for lofty positions

That wind up with the wealth of the land

I'll give you the throne that a king sat on

For just a small baton

Providing you included a band



If I could be the wealthy owner of a large industry

I would say, "Not for me"

I'd rather lead a band



If I could be a politician with a chance to dictate

I would say, "Let it wait"

I'd rather lead a band



My ev'ry care ceases

I'm rich as old Croesus

When I've got ten pieces

In hand



If I could have a millionairess with a whole flock of banks

I would just whisper "Thanks"

I'd rather lead a band



(::2nd chorus:::)

Give me a band, yes sir

And not a thing lesser

To be that professor

Is grand



If Josephine had left Napoleon and climbed in my lap

I'd say, "Go back to Nap"

I'd rather lead a band



(::patter:::)

A saxophone, a slide trombone

A bass fiddle and a drum

A guy at the piano who makes it hum

A violin, a clarinet

A hot trumpet and guitar

And me with the baton and there you are