Me Ol' Bamboo Lyrics - Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Me Ol' Bamboo Lyrics

Me Ol' Bamboo


[All Dancers: ]
A gentleman's got a walking stick.
A seaman's got a gaff.
And the merry men of Robin Hood
They used a quarterstaff.
On the Spanish plains inside their canes
They hide their ruddy swords.
But we make do with an old bamboo
And everyone applauds!

1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - Hey!

[Chorus]
Me ol' bam-boo, me ol' bam-boo
You'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.
You can have me hat or me bumper-shoo
But you'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.

[Verse: Dancers and Caractacus]
When punting on the beautiful Thames

Caractacus:
You use a sturdy pole.

Dancers:
To protect their fair complexion

Caractacus:
Ladies use a parasol.

Dancers:
It's useful in the underbrush

Caractacus:
To have a hefty spear.

Dancers:
Right!

All:
But what we do with an old bam-boo
Makes everybody cheer!
1 - 2 - 3 - HO!
Me ol' bam-boo, me ol' bam-boo
You'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo
You can have me hat or me bumper-shoo
But you'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo
'Ere we go, mate . . .

Caractacus:
A flyer in an "aerioplane"

Chorus:
He steers it with a stick

Caractacus:
He does?

Caractacus:
A collier in the pits o' Wales

Chorus:
He leans upon his pick

Caractacus:
That's right!

All:
Now, every wheel of an automobile
Revolves around a shaft (HEY!)
But what we do with an old bamboo
Makes everyone go daft.
And 1 - 2

Me ol' bam-boo, me ol' bam-boo
You'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.
You can have me hat or me bumper-shoo
But you'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.

(Dance break)
[Interlude]
1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - HEY!
And a 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - and a 5 and a 6 and a 7 HO!

[Chorus]
Me ol' bam-boo, me ol' bam-boo
You'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.
You can have me hat or me bumper-shoo
But you'd better never bother with me ol' bamboo.
You'd better never bother with me ol' bam-boo!
Last Update: April, 21st 2025


Song overview

Me Ol’ Bamboo Lyrics video by Dick Van Dyke
Dick Van Dyke is singing the 'Me Ol’ Bamboo' lyrics in the music video.

Song overview

  • Producer: Irwin Kostal
  • Writers: Robert B. Sherman, Richard M. Sherman
  • Release date: December 17, 1968
  • Musical Genre: Soundtrack, Pop
  • Album: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Original Cast Soundtrack)
  • Language: English
  • Mood: Playful, Energetic
  • Tags: Classic Musical, Dance Number, Uplifting

Lyrics Analysis and meaning

Dick Van Dyke performing song Me Ol’ Bamboo
Performance of 'Me Ol’ Bamboo' by Dick Van Dyke in the music video.
The song text "Me Ol’ Bamboo" presents a spirited, dance-filled celebration of resilience, improvisation, and creativity. At the heart of the number is the symbolic bamboo stick, representing adaptability across different walks of life, from the seafaring world to aviation and countryside adventures. Crafted by the Sherman Brothers, the song combines witty storytelling with high-energy Morris dancing rhythms, vividly capturing the spirit of British culture.

History and Inspiration

Robert B. Sherman's real-life experience during WWII, where he sustained a lifelong injury and used a bamboo cane during recovery, breathes authenticity into the theme. The bamboo becomes a metaphor for resourcefulness and survival, turning a simple walking stick into a badge of honor.

Composition and Structure

This vibrant piece employs quick tempo changes, call-and-response verses between dancers and Dick Van Dyke's "Caractacus Potts," and energetic choreography that mirrors the lively, chaotic spirit of a community working together.

Key Imagery and Metaphors

The bamboo symbolizes strength and utility. Phrases like "You can 'ave me 'at or me bumbershoot" show humorously how the bamboo is more valuable than other possessions. Each reference to tools (quarterstaff, parasol, aeroplane stick) showcases humanity's reliance on simple instruments to master complex tasks.

Similar songs

Thumbnail from Me Ol’ Bamboo lyric video by Dick Van Dyke
A screenshot from the 'Me Ol’ Bamboo' music video.
  1. Step in Time by Dick Van Dyke: This iconic number from "Mary Poppins" shares the same lively dance atmosphere and showcases similar vigorous choreography and group performance spirit. Both songs are heavily rooted in British working-class tradition and demonstrate how rhythmic movement can unify and uplift a community.
  2. Consider Yourself by Oliver! Cast: From the musical "Oliver!", this song parallels "Me Ol’ Bamboo" in its cheerful group dynamics and warm sense of belonging. Both utilize bustling urban backdrops and highlight camaraderie, emphasizing the joy found in simple, everyday life.
  3. Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious by Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke: Much like "Me Ol’ Bamboo", this tune blends whimsical words, playful melodies, and exuberant performances. They share a magical, escapist quality where linguistic fun turns into pure entertainment, capturing listeners across generations.

Questions and answers

Why is the bamboo stick so significant in the song?
The bamboo stick represents resilience, resourcefulness, and adaptability. It highlights how simple tools can become vital extensions of one’s personality and skill in different professions and circumstances.
What inspired the composition of "Me Ol’ Bamboo"?
The Sherman Brothers were inspired by Robert B. Sherman's personal experience with a bamboo walking stick after being wounded in WWII, blending personal memory with traditional English Morris dance culture.
What makes the choreography of "Me Ol’ Bamboo" so memorable?
The energetic and synchronized movements, mixed with playful improvisation, capture the spirit of Morris dancing while allowing performers like Dick Van Dyke to infuse charm and humor into the physicality of the routine.
Scene from Me Ol’ Bamboo track by Dick Van Dyke
Visual effects scene from 'Me Ol’ Bamboo'.

Awards and chart positions

  • Although "Me Ol’ Bamboo" did not chart as a standalone single, the soundtrack of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" became a beloved classic, nominated for Academy Awards and BAFTAs for its musical contributions.

Fan and media reactions

This song has lived in my head rent-free since I was probably 5-6 years old when I first saw this movie! It’s so fun and all of these men are so talented!
@rubygracemoseley8144
Let us remember Dick Van Dyke was in his 40s doing this number. He was always brilliant and remains so!
@JustSomeSophie
What I love about this scene is that Dick Van Dyke is a second behind everyone else as someone who had just been thrust into that situation would. Very good acting.
@clearspira
This is the Step in Time of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
@thinkanewcolor5108
Everyone calls me weird because I memorized the dance routine at age 4! I’m not weird, I’m a lover of the classics!
@lourdeswhitener9713 The reactions reveal that "Me Ol’ Bamboo" is not just a catchy show tune but a beloved piece of many childhoods. Fans praise Dick Van Dyke’s endurance and infectious charisma, the song's lasting earworm quality, and its joyful choreography. Even younger generations find charm and nostalgia in this classic scene.


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Musical: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Song: Me Ol' Bamboo. Broadway musical soundtrack lyrics. Song lyrics from theatre show/film are property & copyright of their owners, provided for educational purposes