In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town

Ted Lewis

About In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town

"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" is a popular song written by Ira Schuster and Jack Little with lyrics by Joe Young, published in 1932. Ted Lewis and His Band performed it in the film The Crooner in 1932. His version was released as a single and it went to #1, where it remained for 10 weeks.


Year:
1999
3:01
6,723 
#9

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I'm up in the world, 
But I'd give the world to be where I used to be,
A heavenly nest, 
Where I rest the best, 
Means more than the world to me.

It's only a shanty 
In old Shanty Town 
The roof is so slanty it touches the ground.
But my tumbled down shack by an old railroad track, 
Like a millionaire's mansion is calling me back.

I'd give up a palace if I were a king. 
It's more than a palace, it's my everything.
There's a queen waiting there with a silvery crown 
In a shanty in old Shanty Town.

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Ted Lewis

Theodore Leopold Friedman, better known as Ted Lewis (June 6, 1890 – August 25, 1971), was an American entertainer, bandleader, singer, and musician. He led a band presenting a combination of jazz, hokey comedy, and schmaltzy sentimentality that was a hit with the American public. He was known by the moniker "Mr. Entertainment" or Ted "Is Everybody Happy?" Lewis. more »

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Written by: Larry Clinton

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


20 facts about this song

Historical Context
"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" was released in the year 1932.
Collaboration
The song was a joint effort with music by Ira Schuster and Little Jack Little, and lyrics by Joe Young.
Popularity
Despite being released in the 1930s, its timeless tunes and emotional lyrics made it a staple song played on old-time radio shows and popular in the Swing Era.
Genre
The song has a predominately jazz influence and it falls under the traditional pop genre.
Ted Lewis Influence
Ted Lewis was popular for his “Is Everybody Happy?” catchphrase and clarinet playing. This song showcased his broad, emotional vocal range along with music from his jazz band.
Chart Success
Despite being released during the Great Depression era, "In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" became a hit and reached number one on the charts of the day, staying at the top for ten weeks.
Cover Versions
The song’s popularity led to many artists covering it, including Johnny Long in 1946 and Somethin’ Smith and the Redheads in 1956.
Movie Appearance
"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" was featured in Ted Lewis’ movie, "The Crooner".
Enduring Popularity
The song maintained its popularity throughout the decades, being included in compilations of classic pop and jazz songs.
Legacy
While it is often remembered as one of Ted Lewis’ greatest hits, "In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" maintains a broader cultural influence by providing an emotional glimpse into the life of people living during the Great Depression era.
Release and Popularity
"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" is a popular song recorded by Ted Lewis. It was released in 1932 and was a major hit of that era.
Songwriting Credits
The song was written by Ira Schuster, Jack Little, and Joe Young.
Chart Performance
The song was popular on the charts, reaching no.1 on the US Pop Charts in 1932.
Musical Style
"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" follows the style of jazz and swing music, two popular genres during the 1930s.
Significance in Career
This song is one key element that boosted Ted Lewis's career and cemented his place in the music history.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by many artists such as Johnny Long, Doris Day, and Somethin' Smith and the Redheads.
Use in Media
"In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town" has been used in numerous films and TV shows, including "The Public Enemy" (1931).
Ted Lewis’s Performance Style
Lewis was known for his entertaining and flamboyant stage presence, elements that are present in the performance of this song.
Historical Context
The song is reflective of the hardships people faced during the Great Depression, with lyrics alluding to the shanty towns that sprouted during that era.
Song's Legacy
Despite being almost a century old, the song remains well-regarded for its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. It continues to be played by jazz and swing musicians today.

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