You’ve Seen Harlem at its Best

There's more to Harlem than people suspect
They spend an evening or two
You get impression I'd like to correct
You don't know nothin', I'm tellin' you

'Til you've seen gigolos wash their clothes
In a self-respecting nest
Humming lullabies instead of hi-dee-hi's
You've seen Harlem at its best
When you've seen gales who wail
"Hello, baby, love's for sale"
Pound the pavement east to west
Grabbin' what they can to keep a handy man
You've seen Harlem at its best

Rollin' dice that never win, losin' all our rent
Or marchin' in the Elks' parade
We would rather run for gin than run for president
We don't need to park when it comes to pittin' in the dark

When you've seen kids of four crowded 'round the door
Dressed in pappy's coat and vest
Dancing with the grace that's glorified our race
You've seen Harlem at its best

And when you see them couples dance like they in a trance
With that most primitive vest
Rockin' on the beat with everything but feet
You've seen Harlem at its best

Southern darkies plant the corn 'til every acre's filled
But things are different right uptown, so different
Harlem darkies only plant that corn that's been distilled
You get what I mean? Now wait until you've seen

A real native Sally Rand, fan in hand
With nothin' but a cold upon her chest
Then when Waters croon those slightly earthy tunes
You've had your money's worth and seen Harlem at its best