Frère Jacques
Countdown Kids Lyrics
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Dormez vous? Dormez vous?
Sonnez les matines, Sonnez les matines
Ding Ding Dong, Ding Ding Dong
Are you sleeping, are you sleeping?
Brother John, Brother John?
Morning bells are ringing,
Ding Ding Dong, Ding Ding Dong.
The lyrics of the song Frere Jacques by Countdown Kids revolve around a brother named Jacques who is sleeping, and the song asks him if he's awake or still sleeping. The repetition of "Frere Jacques" and "dormez vous" throughout the song showcases the traditional French origins of the song. The words "Sonnez les matines" mean "ring the morning bells" and refer to the religious practice of ringing bells for prayers in the morning. The ringing of bells is further emphasized through the refrain of "ding ding dong."
The song is essentially a nursery rhyme and is commonly sung to children as a lullaby to get them to sleep. The lyrics and melody have become so popular that they are now recognized worldwide and have been translated into various languages. It is said to have originated in France in the 18th century as a simple melody for children to sing, and it quickly gained popularity among both children and adults.
Line by Line Meaning
Frère Jacques, Frère Jacques,
Brother James, Brother James,
Dormez vous? Dormez vous?
Are you sleeping? Are you sleeping?
Sonnez les matines, Sonnez les matines
Ring the morning bells, Ring the morning bells
Ding Ding Dong, Ding Ding Dong
Ding Ding Dong, Ding Ding Dong
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Songtrust Ave
Written by: Traditional
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind