About the song
Ann-Margret’s “Bill Bailey” is a timeless pop classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1961, the song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing Ann-Margret’s exceptional vocal talent and her ability to blend elements of pop, rock, and country music.
The song’s intro immediately sets the stage with a catchy guitar riff and a driving rhythm. Ann-Margret’s energetic vocals then come in, delivering the lyrics with a youthful exuberance that perfectly complements the song’s upbeat tempo. The lyrics express the excitement and anticipation of a young woman waiting for her boyfriend to return.
One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its infectious chorus, in which Ann-Margret sings, “Bill Bailey, won’t you come home?” The chorus’s repetitive refrain further reinforces the song’s central theme of love and longing.
The song’s production is simple yet effective, with Ann-Margret’s vocals taking center stage. The arrangement allows her voice to shine, while the instrumental accompaniment provides a solid foundation for the song.
“Bill Bailey” is a testament to the enduring power of pop music. Its timeless melody, catchy lyrics, and Ann-Margret’s charismatic performance have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Ann-Margret’s talent and her ability to create music that transcends time and genre.
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Lyrics
One one summer’s day,
Sun was shinin’ fine,
The lady love of old Bill Bailey
Was hangin’ clothes on the line
In her back yard,
And weepin’ hard.
She married a B&O brakeman
That took and throwed her down,
Bellerin’ like a prune-fed calf
With a big gang hanging round
And to that crowd,
She hollered loud:
Won’t you come home, Bill Bailey
Won’t you come home?
She moans the whole day long.
I’ll do the cookin’, darling
I’ll pay the rent,
I know I’ve done you wrong;
‘member that rainy eve that
I threw you out,
With nothing but a fine-tooth comb?
I know I’m to blame,
Well, ain’t that a shame
Bill Bailey won’t you please come home.
Bill drove by that door
In an automobile,
A great big diamond, coach and footman
Hear that lady squeal.
He’s all alone
I heard her groan.
She hollered through the door
Bill Bailey, is you sore?
Stop a minute, listen to me
Won’t I see you no more?
Bill winks his eye
As he heard her cry:
Won’t you come home, Bill Bailey
Won’t you come home?
She moans the whole day long.
I’ll do the cookin’, darling
I’ll pay the rent,
I know I’ve done you wrong;
‘member that rainy eve that
I threw you out,
With nothing but a fine-tooth comb?
I know I’m to blame,
Well, ain’t that a shame
Bill Bailey won’t you please come home.