Irving Berlin

When You Play That Piano, Bill!

Irving Berlin


[1st verse:]
Said Miss Eliza Johnson to William Brown
"Up to my home you I invite
Call around some Sunday night
I'd love to have you play my piano upright"
Said Mister William Brown, "The pleasure is mine
I can assure you lady fair"
He called around next day
And started in to play
Just to hear Eliza declare

[Refrain:]
When I hear you play that piano so sweet
My blood runs cold way down to my feet
You sure do bring forth music
Like I never heard before
When you start in playing rag by the streak
I could hear you play that box for a week
For it does most anything but speak
When you play that piano, Bill

[2nd verse:]
Said Mister William Brown, "I can't help but blush
Because Miss Lize you flatter so
I only play the worst I know
While at my best to beat me so it must go"
Then Miss Eliza answered, "What's that you say?
You only played the worst you knew!
Sweet William, I can guess how you play at your best
But the worst right now will do"