Frog Went A-Courtin Lyrics

This lively folk song is about a frog who gets all dressed up with a sword and pistol to propose to Miss Mouse. With its catchy "uh-huh" refrain, this tune is a guaranteed earworm. But did you know this fun story has been sung for hundreds of years, travelling across the globe and picking up tons of different versions along the way? It's a true classic that kids still love today. Let's dive into the long journey of this charming song.

Frog went a-courtin', and he did ride, uh-huh, Frog went a-courtin', and he did ride, uh-huh, Frog went a-courtin', and he did ride, With a sword and pistol by his side, uh-huh.

He rode up to Miss Mousey's door, uh-huh, He rode up to Miss Mousey's door, uh-huh, He rode up to Miss Mousey's door, Where he had been many times before, uh-huh.

He took Miss Mouse upon his knee, uh-huh, He took Miss Mouse upon his knee, uh-huh, He took Miss Mouse upon his knee, Said, "Miss Mouse, will you marry me?" uh-huh.

"Without my Uncle Rat's consent, uh-huh, Without my Uncle Rat's consent, uh-huh, Without my Uncle Rat's consent, I wouldn't marry the president, uh-huh."

Uncle Rat laughed and shook his fat sides, uh-huh, Uncle Rat laughed and shook his fat sides, uh-huh, Uncle Rat laughed and shook his fat sides, To think his niece would be a bride, uh-huh.

The origins and many names of the folk song

"Frog Went A-Courtin'" is a folk song with roots dating back to 16th-century Scotland. This ballad has spread across centuries and continents, collecting numerous titles and variations. Alternative titles include "Froggy Went A-Courtin'," "Froggie Went A-Courting," "The Frog's Courtship," "Frog Went A-Wooing," "King Kong Kitchie Kitchie Ki-Me-O," and "Crambone."

First printed in 1548, this song has been recorded by Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Elvis Presley and Burl Ives. Each performer typically adds regional variations and additional verses, extending the narrative to include wedding preparations and guests. Different versions end either with a happy marriage or the newlyweds being eaten by a cat, reflecting the song's dual purpose as entertainment and cautionary tale.

Why kids love it

The appeal of "Frog Went A-Courtin'" comes from its narrative structure and the "uh-huh" refrain that encourages participation. Children enjoy the story of animals acting like humans—dressing up, getting married, and hosting parties. The consistent rhythm and call-response format make it accessible for young singers to join in before they can memorize all the words.

For parents and educators, the song provides material to discuss folklore traditions, storytelling elements, and natural history. With its 500-year history and adaptability, "Frog Went A-Courtin'" continues to engage new generations of listeners and singers.

This article was crafted with the assistance of an AI language model. The final content was reviewed and edited by a human and reflects the editorial judgment and expertise of  Today's Parent.