The Meaning Behind The Song: Bingo by Sharon Lois & Bram

When it comes to classic children’s songs, few are as widely recognized or beloved as “Bingo.” The tune, which was made famous by Sharon Lois & Bram in the 1980s, has been sung by generations of kids and adults alike. But even though it’s a catchy and fun melody, some people might be curious about the meaning behind the lyrics. Here’s a closer look at what “Bingo” is actually about.

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The Origin of “Bingo”

“Bingo” is actually a traditional folk song that has been around for decades. Its origins are somewhat unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. The basic structure of the song has remained the same over the years, but different versions have been recorded with variations in the lyrics.

The Lyrics of “Bingo”

The lyrics of “Bingo” are fairly simple and straightforward, which is part of what makes it so popular with young children. The song is sung as a call-and-response, with one person singing the “B-I-N-G-O” part and others chiming in with the corresponding letter. The lyrics are as follows:

There was a farmer had a dog,
And Bingo was his name-o.
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
And Bingo was his name-o!

The subsequent verses follow the same pattern, but with each new verse, one of the letters is replaced with a clap. So, the second verse goes:

There was a farmer had a dog,
And Bingo was his name-o.
-(clap)-I-N-G-O!
-(clap)-I-N-G-O!
-(clap)-I-N-G-O!
And Bingo was his name-o!

And so on, until all the letters have been replaced with claps.

The Meaning of “Bingo”

So, what does “Bingo” actually mean? On the surface, it’s simply a fun song about a farmer and his dog. However, some people have interpreted the song as having a deeper meaning related to the hardships of rural life. The idea is that the farmer and his dog are stand-ins for the hardworking people who live and work on farms, and the song is a celebration of their resilience and perseverance in the face of difficulty.

The Legacy of “Bingo”

Regardless of its meaning, “Bingo” remains one of the most beloved children’s songs of all time. It has been recorded by countless artists in various styles and languages, and it continues to be sung in schools, daycares, and homes around the world. The popularity of the song is a testament to the power of simple, catchy tunes that capture the hearts and imaginations of people young and old.

FAQs

What inspired Sharon Lois & Bram to record “Bingo?”

Sharon Hampson and Lois Lillienstein (the “Sharon and Lois” part of the duo) first heard “Bingo” when they were working as teachers in Canada. They thought the song was a perfect fit for their musical style and recorded it for their debut album, “One Elephant, Deux Éléphants.”

Who wrote the lyrics to “Bingo?”

The authorship of “Bingo” is unknown, since the song is a traditional folk tune with many variations. Some sources attribute the lyrics to a British nursery rhyme from the 18th century, though this is disputed.

What is the meaning behind the name “Bingo?”

The name “Bingo” is thought to have come from a popular game of the same name that was played in the early 20th century. The game involved marking off numbers on a card as they were called out, and the person who completed a row or column of numbers first would shout “Bingo!”

Is there a dance that goes along with “Bingo?”

There isn’t really a standard dance associated with “Bingo,” since the song is usually sung in a seated circle with everyone clapping along. However, some people have created their own choreography to go along with the song.

What other songs are similar to “Bingo?”

There are many other traditional folk songs that follow the same call-and-response format as “Bingo,” such as “Old MacDonald Had a Farm,” “The Wheels on the Bus,” and “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”

What are some variations of the “Bingo” lyrics?

There are countless variations of the “Bingo” lyrics, depending on the region and the version of the song. Some versions feature different animals and their corresponding sounds instead of spelling out “Bingo,” while others add in new verses with special actions or gestures.

Is “Bingo” just for kids?

While “Bingo” is definitely most popular as a children’s song, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In fact, many adults find themselves singing along to the catchy tune even if they haven’t heard it in years.

What is the significance of the clapping in “Bingo?”

The clapping in “Bingo” serves as a way to vary the melody and create a sense of rhythm and excitement. It also provides a physical element to the song, which can be helpful for children who are learning to tap into their sense of rhythm.

How can I teach my child to sing “Bingo?”

One of the easiest ways to teach “Bingo” to a child is to sing it along with them and encourage them to repeat the words and the claps. You can also try incorporating hand gestures or movements to help them remember the pattern.

What are some other popular Sharon Lois & Bram songs?

Sharon Lois & Bram recorded many other classic children’s songs, including “Skinnamarink,” “Five Little Monkeys,” and “The Peanut Butter Song.” They also had their own television show, “The Elephant Show,” which featured songs, skits, and educational segments.

Can “Bingo” be customized for different events or occasions?

Yes, one of the great things about “Bingo” is that it can be customized to fit different themes or purposes. Some people have created versions of the song that are specific to holidays, sports teams, or other special events.

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