Ella Fitzgerald (April 25, 1917 – June 15, 1996), also known as "Lady Ella"… Read Full Bio ↴Ella Fitzgerald (April 25, 1917 – June 15, 1996), also known as "Lady Ella", and the "First Lady of Song", was an American jazz vocalist.

Louis Armstrong (1901 - 1971) was a trumpet player, singer, and bandleader, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists in the history of jazz.

Holiday in Harlem
Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong Lyrics

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Hallelujah, Hallelujah, glory, Halle
What's all that noise?
Hallelujah
Don't give up with that now

Glory, Halle
Who's that over in the corner?
Hallelujah

I believe that's Mr. Teagarden

Hey what you doin' up there, man?
Last time I saw you
You were sayin' fare thee well to Harlem
I done bin wise g'wine
An' I ain't g'wine there n'more

You sho' come back the right time
It's Christmas up here
What d'ya mean up here?
It's Christmas ev'rywhere

Yeah, but it ain't all Christmas
Like it's Christmas in Harlem
No

Ev'ry gal struttin' with her beau
Through the streets covered white with snow
Happy smiles er'ywhere you go
Christmas night in Harlem

Black and tans feelin' mighty good
In that old colored neighborhood
Here and now be it understood
Christmas night in Harlem

Ev'ryone is gonna sit up
Until after three
Ev'ryone will be all lit up
Like a Christmas tree

Come on now ev'ry coal black Joe
You just lead me t'the mistletoe
With a kiss and a hi de ho
Christmas night in Harlem

Hee, man, dog
What'd Santa Claus leave in your stockin'?
Let me see, there's an orange, a jar ?
And, man, look at this slide trombone
Yeah, but it might not sound so pretty
Let me hear you tune it

Mr. Mercer, I'm glad to be back in this festivity
Ah, you said it Mr. T
It's Christmas night in Harlem

Well it's Christmas night in Harlem
Man, you drew the ?

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Holiday in Harlem" by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong depict a scene of joy and celebration during Christmas time in Harlem. The song begins with the repeated exclamation of "Hallelujah" and "Glory, Halle," expressing the excitement and enthusiasm that fill the air. The mention of Mr. Teagarden suggests the presence of a jazz musician, possibly referring to Jack Teagarden, known for his trombone playing. The conversation between the characters suggests that Mr. Teagarden had been away from Harlem but has returned at the right time for the festive season.

The lyrics then focus on the atmosphere of Christmas in Harlem, with descriptions of couples walking the snowy streets, joyful faces, and a sense of happiness all around. The reference to "Black and tans" refers to interracial clubs where both black and white patrons were allowed, emphasizing the diversity and inclusivity of the neighborhood. The song emphasizes the excitement and anticipation of the night, with everyone ready to celebrate until after three in the morning.

The playful banter between the characters continues, with discussions about what Santa Claus left in their stockings. The mention of the oranges, jars, and a slide trombone highlights the simple yet cherished gifts of the time. The mention of tuning the trombone humorously adds a touch of realism, acknowledging that even during the festive season, not everything may go perfectly.

Lyrics © MUSIC SALES CORPORATION, BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: MITCHELL PARISH, RAYMOND SCOTT

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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