I'm Gonna Go Fishin'
Duke Ellington · Other Songs - Duke Ellington
Wanting to cry
Then I remember
Yes, I know why
She's a real good one for having her cake
I'm gonna go fishing or jump in the lake
Yeah, I'm gonna go fishing
That's what I'll do
Think about nothing
Not even you
Catch a real big one, a big speckled trout
Snapping in the water I'll pull him on out
Sweet talking liar
Spin me a yarn
Tell me a story
Big as a barn
Don't stop listening; I won't hear you out
I'm gonna go fishing and catch me a trout
If a gal is a liar
A gal is a fool
Playing for keepers
And breaking the rules
She'll be the loser yet to find out
I'm gonna go fishing and catch me a trout
Here in the water
Look at him shine
There goes a big one
That one is mine
Catch up the reel now; I've got the feel now
Hooked onto my fly rod I've got me a trout
Sweet talking liar
You're in for a fall
You tell me a story
You cut to the wall
Don't go my way; I'm down the highway
I'm gonna go fishing
Yes, I'm gonna go fishing
Yes, I'm gonna go fishing and get me some trout
About I'm Gonna Go Fishin'
Duke Ellington's "I'm Gonna Go Fishin'" stands as a vibrant example of his ability to blend jazz improvisation with accessible, rhythmic storytelling. Released during the height of his career, the track exemplifies the swing era's characteristic groove, featuring Ellington's signature interplay between piano and ensemble. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy melody made it a staple in dance halls and ballrooms across the United States, reflecting the optimism and social energy of the 1940s. While Ellington is often celebrated for his complex harmonic structures and orchestral arrangements, this recording highlights his talent for crafting memorable, singable tunes that resonated with a broad audience. It remains a testament to his versatility as a composer who could seamlessly transition between sophisticated jazz compositions and popular standards that defined the era's musical landscape.