Let's Talk Dirty In Hawaiian
John Prine · Other Songs - John Prine
For the land of the tall palm tree.
Aloha, ole Milwaukee
Hello, Waikiki
I just stepped down from the airplane
When I heard her say,
"Wacka Wacka, nuka, licka
Wacka Wacka nuka licka
Would you like a lei?"
Chorus:
Hey, let's talk dirty in Hawaiian
Whisper in my ear
Icka puka maka waawaa heenee
Are the words I long to hear
Lay your coconut on my tiki
What the hecka mooka mooka dear
Let's talk dirty in Hawaiian
Say the words I long to hear
It's a ukulele Honolulu sunset
Listen to the grass skirts sway
Drinking rum from the pineapple
Out on Honolulu Bay
The steel guitars are playin'
While she's talking with her hands
Gimme gimme oaka doaka
Make a wish and wanna poka
Words I understand.
Chorus
Well, I bought a lotta junk-a with my moolah
And I sent it to the folks back home
I never had a chance to dance the hula
Well, I guess I should have known
When you start talkin'
To the sweet waheni
Walkin' in the pale moonlight
Oaka noaka what I said
Naaka waaka Sis-coom bakkas
Hope I said it right.
Chorus
(spoken "Aloha")
Let's Talk Dirty In Hawaiian
John Prine's "Let's Talk Dirty In Hawaiian" stands as a quintessential example of his unique ability to blend whimsical humor with poignant observation. A staple of his live performances and a beloved track within his broader discography, the song showcases Prine's signature storytelling style, where the mundane and the romantic collide in unexpected ways. The track captures the playful spirit that defined much of his songwriting, inviting listeners into a world where language and intimacy intertwine. As part of a catalogue that consistently challenged conventional country and folk norms, this recording highlights Prine's enduring influence on American roots music. It remains a cherished piece for fans who appreciate his knack for finding the extraordinary in everyday moments, securing its place as a memorable song in his celebrated body of work.