So, this is one of those “kids’ songs” that’s not entirely a kid song. It’s often sited as “Debbie Reynolds” song – she did sing it in a movie musical, but actually, it was written and published way before that in 1914. I knew it from hearing my best friend and her mom sing it to each other. I always remembered (and loved) the first couple of lines, but not sure I ever really knew the whole song. So – I was excited to learn it for the video show!
What makes it appealing to kids, thus a “kids song”? In my opinion, it’s the first couple of lines: “Aba Daba Daba Daba…”,the fact that it’s about a monkey and a chimpanzee, and that it’s a love story wherein the two said primates get married by a Baboon. And then, the tune is just fun!
My version in the video is a bit slowed down from the original – you know, since I just learned it and all. But hopefully you and your kids will find it just as enjoyable!
xoxo