I'd Rather Lead A Band
Fred & Ginger Lyrics

I haven't ambitions
I don't have any high aspirations

For lofty positions
For positions of great importance or power

That wind up with
That ultimately result in

The wealth of the land
Acquiring a lot of wealth

I'll give you the throne
I'll offer you a position of leadership

That a king sat on
That was once occupied by a king

For just a small baton
In exchange for a small conductor's wand

Providing you included a band
As long as a musical group is involved

If I could be the wealthy owner
If I had the opportunity to be a rich business owner

Of a large industry
Of a sizable business venture

I would say, "Not for me"
I would decline the offer

I'd rather lead a band
I'd prefer to conduct a musical group

If I could be a politician
If I were to become a political figure

With a chance to dictate
With the power to make decisions

I would say, "Let it wait"
I would postpone that opportunity

My every care ceases
All my worries disappear

I'm rich as old Croesus
I feel as wealthy as King Croesus of ancient Lydia

When I've got ten pieces
When I have ten musical instruments

In hand
In my possession

If I could have a millionairess
If I were to be with a wealthy woman

With a whole flock of banks
Who had a large number of banks

I would just whisper, "Thanks"
I would be grateful for her kindness

I'd rather lead a band
But I would still prefer to conduct a musical group

Oh, a saxophone, a slide trombone
These are some musical instruments

A bass fiddle and a drum
Other instruments in a band

A guy at the piano
A musician playing a piano

Who makes it hum
Who makes great music on the piano

A violin, a clarinet
More instruments in a band

A hot trumpet and guitar
Even more instruments in a band

And me with the baton
And me, conducting the group

And there you are
And that's how a great band is formed

Alright boys, rehearsal tomorrow at ten
A reminder for the upcoming rehearsal