Matilda
Harry Belafonte · 101: Shake Shake Senora [2012]
Once again now!
Matilda, Matilda, Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Five hundred dollars, friends, I lost:
Woman even sell me cat and horse!
Heya! Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Everybody!
(Matilda,) Sing out the chorus,
(Matilda,) Sing a little louder,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Once again now!
(Matilda,) Going 'round the corner,
(Matilda,) Sing out the chorus,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Well, the money was to buy me house an' lan'
Then she got a serious plan,
A-hey, ah!
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Everybody!
(Matilda,
Matilda,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
Once again now!
(Matilda,) Going 'round the corner,
(Matilda,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
Well, the money was just inside me bed,
Stuck up in a pillow beneath me head.
Don't you know,
Matilda, she found me money and...
Everybody...
(Matilda,
Matilda,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
Once again now!
(Matilda,) Hooma locka chimba,
(Matilda,) Bring me little water,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Women over forty?
(Matilda,
Matilda,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
Everybody!
(Matilda,) Goin' round the corner,
(Matilda,) Bring me little water,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Well, me friends, never to love again,
All me money gone in vain!
Uh, heya...
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.
Everybody!
(Matilda,
Matilda,) Oom, ba-locka-chimba!
(Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
Sing a little softer!
(Matilda,
Matilda,
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela.)
EVERYBODY!
(Matilda,
Matilda,) Sing out the chorus!
Matilda, she take me money and run Venezuela!
About Matilda
Harry Belafonte's "Matilda" stands as a vibrant testament to his enduring legacy in calypso and Caribbean music, showcasing his mastery of rhythmic storytelling. Recorded for the 2012 compilation *101: Shake Shake Senora*, this track exemplifies the lively, danceable spirit that defined his career and brought global attention to Jamaican and Haitian musical traditions. As a central figure in popularizing calypso, Belafonte infused "Matilda" with his signature vocal warmth and intricate percussion, creating an infectious sound that transcends generations. The song reflects the festive atmosphere of Caribbean celebrations, utilizing traditional instrumentation to evoke the vibrant culture of the islands. Its inclusion in his discography highlights his commitment to preserving and promoting authentic folk sounds while maintaining universal appeal. This recording remains a cherished example of his ability to blend cultural heritage with accessible, joyful entertainment.