[Verse 1]
I knew a man Bojangles and he'd dance for you
In worn-out shoes
With silver hair, a ragged shirt and baggy pants
The old soft shoe
He'd jump so high, he'd jump so high
Then he'd lightly touch down

[Verse 2]
I met him in a cell in New Orleans
I was down and out
He looked to me to be the very eyes of age
As he spoke right out
He talked of life, talked of life
Laughed, slapped his leg in step

[Verse 3]
He said the name Bojangles and he danced a lick
Across the cell
He grabbed his pants, a better stance and he jumped up high
Clicked his heels
He let go a laugh, let go a laugh
Shook back his clothes all around

[Chorus]
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles, dance
[Verse 4]
He danced with those at minstrel shows and county fairs
Throughout the South
He spoke with tears of fifteen years of how his dog and him
Had traveled about
His dog up and died, he up and died
After twenty years, he still grieves

[Verse 5]
He said, "I dance now at every chance at honky-tonks
For drinks and tips
But most of time I spend behind these country bars
'Cause I drinks a bit"
He shook his head, and as he shook his head
I heard someone ask please

[Chorus]
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles
Mr. Bojangles, dance