Strike Up the Band
Judy Garland Mickey Rooney Six Hits & A Miss MGM Studio Chorus & Orchestra / George & Ira Gershwin Lyrics

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Let the drums roll out
Let the trumpet call
While the people shout
"Strike up the band"

Hear the cymbals ring
Callin' one and all
To the martial swing

Strike up the band

There is work to be done, to be done
Let's have fun, fun, fun
Come on you son of a son, of a gun
Take your stand

Fall in line, yea a bow
Come along, let's go
Hey, Leader, strike up the band!

There is work to be done, to be done
Let's have fun, fun, fun
Come on you son of a gun, of a gun
Take your stand

Fall in line, yea a bow
Come on, let's go
Hey, Leader, strike up

Hey, Leader, strike up
Hey, Leader, strike up the band!

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Strike Up the Band" express a call to action, urging the people to come together and enjoy the music. The song sets the scene for a grand event where the drums roll out, the trumpets call, and the cymbals ring. All of this is in preparation for a martial swing that is sure to get everyone up and moving. The lyrics employ repetition to create a sense of unity amongst the people, urging them to fall in line, take their stand, and step in time to the beat. The song captures the spirit of community, with everyone coming together to have fun and experience the joy of music.

Line by Line Meaning

Let the drums roll out
Begin the performance with the sound of drums

Let the trumpet call
Let the trumpet sound be heard

While the people shout "Strike up the band"
The people encouragge the band to begin playing

Hear the cymbals ring
Listen to the cymbals ringing

Callin' one and all
Inviting everyone to come and listen

To the martial swing
To the rhythmic and upbeat musical style

There is work to be done, to be done
There are tasks to accomplish

Let's have fun, fun, fun
We can still have enjoyment while working

Come on you son of a son, of a gun
An expression of encouragement for someone to participate

Take your stand
Claim your spot in the performance

Fall in line, yea a bow
Follow the leader and take a bow