Paddiwack Song
Valens Richie Lyrics
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He played knick-knack on my thumb
Knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Well, this old man, he played two
He played knick-knack on my shoe
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Well, this old man, he played four
He played knick-knack on my door
Knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Yeah!
Well, this old man, he played five
He played knick-knack on my side
Well, knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Well, this old man, he played six
He played knick-knack on my stick
Knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Well, this old man, he played seven
He played knick-knack on my head
Knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Well, this man, he played eight
He played knick-knack on his gate
Knick-knack, paddiwack
Give a dog a bone
This old man came a-rollin' home
Alright!
Go home old man
Rock it, now
Rock it now, old man
Go 'head
The lyrics of Valens Richie's "Paddiwack Song" revolve around a repetitive children's rhyme where an old man engages in playful actions, such as playing knick-knack and giving a dog a bone, before eventually returning home. The song starts with the old man playing one, two, four, five, six, seven, and finally eight different sequences of knick-knack actions on various body parts or objects before coming back home. Each verse is followed by the refrain "Give a dog a bone, this old man came a-rollin' home," emphasizing the playful and rhythmic nature of the nursery rhyme.
The lyrics portray a sense of whimsy and nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood innocence and simple joys. The repetitive structure of the song creates a soothing and rhythmic cadence, almost like a comforting lullaby or a chant. Through the playful interactions of the old man with different objects and body parts, the song evokes a sense of imagination and storytelling, inviting listeners to engage in a whimsical journey with the character.
The repetitions in the lyrics reinforce the sense of a cyclical routine or ritual, as the old man moves through the various playful actions before returning home each time. This cyclical nature can symbolize the passage of time or the inevitability of returning to one's roots or origins. The playful and nonsensical nature of the actions also adds an element of humor and light-heartedness to the song, making it a cheerful and entertaining experience for listeners.
Overall, the "Paddiwack Song" by Valens Richie encapsulates a childlike innocence and joy through its whimsical lyrics and playful imagery. The repetitive structure, rhythmic cadence, and nostalgic themes create a charming and engaging musical journey that celebrates the simple pleasures of imagination and storytelling. The song invites listeners to embrace their inner child, to revel in the magical and carefree world of the old man's playful adventures, and ultimately, to find comfort and joy in the familiar act of coming back home.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: RICHARD VALENZUELA, RITCHIE VALENS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind