Darktown Strutters' Ball
Ella Fitzgerald and Her Savoy Eight Lyrics

The song Darktown Strutters' Ball is an upbeat and lively 1920s jazz tune that describes a wild night out on the town. The singer of the song is inviting their significant other to join them in the revelry, warning them not to be late as they plan to attend a dance party known as the Darktown Strutters' Ball. The name "Darktown" refers to the predominantly African-American neighborhoods and entertainment districts in many American cities during the early 20th century.

The lyrics encourage a carefree and spontaneous attitude towards dancing, urging the listener to "dance all over the floor" and even "dance all over my shoes" when the band plays. The mention of the Jelly Roll blues is a reference to a popular ragtime jazz composition by Jelly Roll Morton, who is considered one of the pioneers of jazz music. The line "Set 'em all alight" is a colloquialism that means to energize and excite the crowd with one's dancing.

The song reflects an important cultural moment in American history, as jazz music and dancing were a means of expression for African-American communities during a time of segregation and discrimination. The Darktown Strutters' Ball was a real event that took place in many cities across the United States, and this song helped to popularize it as a symbol of freedom and exuberance.