Oh! Susanna Lyrics

Oh! Susanna was written by Stephen Foster and published in 1848, quickly becoming one of the most popular American songs of the 19th century and a staple of folk and children's repertoires ever since. It suits preschool and early elementary children, roughly ages 3 to 8, thanks to its bouncy, easy-to-follow melody and simple storytelling verses about travel and friendship. Early-childhood educators often use upbeat narrative songs like this one because following a simple story set to music helps children build sequencing skills, tracking what happens first, next, and last within the verses. As one of Stephen Foster's best-known compositions, it also offers a gentle, age-appropriate entry point for introducing children to American folk music history in a classroom setting. Its singable chorus and steady banjo-style rhythm have kept it a favorite for group singalongs for well over 150 years. To explore more classic folk songs with lasting appeal for children, see [Top 20 Classic Folk Songs for Children](/blog/top-20-classic-folk-songs-for-children).

I came from Alabama with my banjo on my knee,
I'm going to Louisiana, my true love for to see.
It rained all night the day I left, the weather it was dry,
The sun so hot I froze to death, Susanna don't you cry.

Oh! Susanna, oh don't you cry for me,
For I came from Alabama with my banjo on my knee.

I had a dream the other night, when everything was still,
I thought I saw Susanna dear, a-coming down the hill.
The buckwheat cake was in her mouth, the tear was in her eye,
Says I, I'm coming from the south, Susanna don't you cry.

Oh! Susanna, oh don't you cry for me,
For I came from Alabama with my banjo on my knee.