Waltzing Matilda

Roy Orbison · Other Songs - Roy Orbison

Once a jolly swagman, camp'd by a billabong,

Under the shade of a coolibah tree,

And he sang as he watch'd and waited till his billy boiled,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Waltzing Matilda, waltzing Matilda,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me,

And he sang as he sat and waited till his billy boiled,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Down came a jumbuck to drink at that billabong,

Up jumped the swagman and grabbed him with glee,

And he sang as he shaoved that jumbuck in his tucker bag,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Waltzing Matilda, waltzing Matilda,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me,

And he sang as he shaoved that jumbuck in his tucker bag,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Up rode the squatter mounted on his thoroughbred,

Down come the troopers, one, two, three,

Whose that jolly jumbuck you've got in your tucker bag?

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Waltzing Matilda, waltzing Matilda,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me,

Whose that jolly jumbuck you've got in your tucker bag?

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Up jumped the swagman, sprang into the billabong,

Drowning himself by the coolibah tree,

And his ghost may be heard as you pass by that billabong,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Waltzing Matilda, waltzing Matilda,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me,

And his ghost may be heard as you pass by that billabong,

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me.

Waltzing Matilda

Roy Orbison's recording of "Waltzing Matilda" represents a fascinating intersection of American rock and roll and Australian folk tradition. While the song is an iconic national anthem in Australia, Orbison's interpretation brings his signature operatic vocal style to the narrative ballad. This performance highlights his ability to infuse traditional material with dramatic intensity, transforming a familiar story into a deeply personal expression. The track stands as a testament to Orbison's versatility, showcasing how his emotive delivery could elevate a standard folk tune into a powerful piece of art. It remains a cherished example of his willingness to explore diverse genres beyond his usual romantic pop and country influences, offering listeners a unique glimpse into his broader musical range.