Act I: The Lady Is A Tramp
Lena Horne · Other Songs - Lena Horne
She likes the theater, and never comes late
She never bothers, with people she'd hate
That's why the lady is a tramp
Doesn't like crap games, with barons or earls
Won't go to Harlem, in ermine and pearls
Won't dish the dirt, with the rest of the girls
That's why the lady is a tramp
She loves the free, fresh wind in her hair
Life without care
She's broke, and it's oak
Hates California, it's cold and it's damp
That's why the lady is a tramp
She gets too hungry, to wait for dinner at eight
She loves the theater, but never comes late
She'd never bother, with people She'd hate
Thats why the Lady is a Tramp
She'll have no crap games, with Sharpie's and Fraud's
And she won't go to Harlem, in Lincoln's or Ford's
And she won't dish the dirt, with the rest of the broads
That's why the Lady is a Tramp
She loves the free, fresh, wind in her hair
Life without care
She's broke, but it's oak
Hates California, it's so cold, and so damp
That's why the Lady, That's why the Lady
That's why the Lady is a Tramp
About Act I: The Lady Is A Tramp
Lena Horne delivers a spirited and elegant rendition of "Act I: The Lady Is A Tramp," a classic number from the musical *Show Boat*. As a pioneering African-American performer who broke barriers in Hollywood and on Broadway, Horne brings her signature charm and vocal warmth to this lively ballad. The song, originally composed by Jerome Kern and Oscar Hammerstein II, serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative where the character Mary Jane asserts her independence and dignity. Horne's interpretation captures the character's resilience and grace, showcasing her mastery of both musical theater and popular song. This recording stands as a testament to her ability to embody complex characters while maintaining the timeless appeal of the Great American Songbook. Her performance remains a cherished example of mid-20th-century jazz and show tune interpretation.