’Cause it was too hot.

[44] The meaning of this expression is uncertain. In other songs it appears as “Hikin’ Jerry” or “Mike and Jerry.” There is a tradition among the Negro workers that two large mules, named Mike and Jerry, broke loose from their driver and hiked a remarkable distance in one day. If this was the origin of the song, then “I can Jerry” is a result of misunderstanding.

My Home Ain’t Here, Captain

H-e-y- L-a-w-d, Lawd, Lawd,

O Lawd, Lawd, captain.

My home ain’t here, captain,

An’ I ain’t got to stay.

I’m goin’ back home, captain,

I’m long time sinner, goin’ back home.

Ol’ Aunty Dinah had candy wagon,