Yes! We Have No Piñatas

adapted/arr. Paul & Teresa Jennings

Once again, we are pleased to find a favorite tune from 1923 (now in the public domain thanks to the copyright laws) and adapt it for today's kids so they can enjoy it, too. Most old fogeys like me know this song as "Yes! We Have No Bananas," its original title. In its day, early in the 20th century, it became a novelty hit, and for many years it drew laughs. Imagine our surprise then, when we knew we could finally use the song, that the original concept was, well, objectionable. It's not something we wanted to share with your singers.

As often happens, my creative wife heard my dilemma, and suggested the bright Latin-flavored adaptation you see here. We think it works well and it's fun to sing. We suggest that you stay light as you approach the lyrics. If you get too dramatic, there may be a tendency to fall behind the beat. And even though there are quite a few words moving by quickly, be careful to enunciate well. You want the audience to follow the story of your song. - PJ

Text is taken from Music K-8 magazine.