[Instrumental]

[Verse 1]
Shoe shine boy, you work hard all day
Shoe shine boy, got no time to play
Every nickel helps a lot
So, shine, shine, shoe shine boy
You find joy in the things you do
Shoe shine boy, seldom ever blue
You're content with what you got
So, shine, shine, shoe shine boy

[Bridge]
People look at you with scorn
'Cause your clothes are torn and worn
Still, you never whine
You keep walking up and down street
Pleading with each one you meet
"Brother, can you spare a shine?"

[Verse 2]
Shoe shine boy, soon the day will come
Shoe shine boy, soon a tune you hum
Every nickel helps a lot
So, shine, shine, shoe shine boy
[Instrumental]