John Herndon "Johnny" Mercer (18 November 1909 – 25 June 1976) is regarded … Read Full Bio ↴John Herndon "Johnny" Mercer (18 November 1909 – 25 June 1976) is regarded as one of America's greatest songwriters. He is best known as a lyricist, but he also composed music. He was also a popular singer who recorded his own songs as well as those written by others. From the mid-1930s through the mid-1950s, many of the songs Mercer wrote and performed were among the most popular hits of the time. He wrote the lyrics to more than fifteen hundred songs, including compositions for movies and Broadway shows. He received nineteen Academy Award nominations, and won four. Mercer was also a co-founder of Capitol Records.

Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah
Johnny Mercer Lyrics

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Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay
My, oh my, what a wonderful day
Plenty of sunshine headed my way
Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay

Mister bluebird on my shoulder
It's the truth, it's actual
Everything is satisfactual

Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay

Wonderful feelin'
Wonderful day

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to the Johnny Mercer song "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah" convey a sense of pure joy and optimism. The first line, "Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay," sets the tone as an upbeat and lively tune. The second line, "My, oh my, what a wonderful day," speaks to the excitement and happiness that the singer is feeling. They are looking forward to the day ahead, which is filled with the promise of sunshine and positivity.

The third line, "Plenty of sunshine headed my way," reinforces this theme of good fortune and hopefulness. The singer seems to be anticipating good things to come and is exuberant about the possibilities. The repetition of "zip a dee doo-dah" and "zip a dee ay" throughout the song helps to create a sense of rhythm and momentum, as if the singer is bubbling over with joy.

The verses that follow further emphasize this idea of happiness and contentment. The image of a bluebird on the singer's shoulder is a symbol of good luck and companionship. The phrase "everything is satisfactual" reinforces the message that life is good and everything is falling into place. The overall effect of the song is one of joyfulness and optimism, encouraging listeners to look on the bright side and embrace the good in their lives.

Line by Line Meaning

Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay
Expressing excitement and joy, bringing attention to the happiness that is to come

My, oh my, what a wonderful day
Drawing attention to the beauty and goodness of the present moment

Plenty of sunshine headed my way
Anticipating all the good things that are yet to come

Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay
Reiterating the initial excitement and joy

Mister bluebird on my shoulder
A symbol of happiness and good luck, bringing a sense of positivity

It's the truth, it's actual
Pointing out the reality of the situation, emphasizing the authenticity of the good feelings

Everything is satisfactual
Highlighting the completeness and perfection of the current moment

Zip a dee doo-dah, zip a dee ay
Continuing to express excitement and joy

Wonderful feelin'
Capturing the positive emotions of the current experience

Wonderful day
Summing up the overall positivity and sense of satisfaction

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Allie Wrubel, Ray Gilbert

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind