Once I lived the life of a millionaire
Spending my money, I didn't care
I carried my friends out for a good time
Bying bootleg liquor, champagne and wine

Then I began to fall so low
I didn't have a friend, and no place to go
So if I ever get my hand on a dollar again
But if I ever hands
I'm gonna hold on to it till them eagle's green
I'm gonna hold on to
it ev'ry negro'es friend

Nobody knows you when you down and out
In my pocket not one penny
And my friends I haven't any
But If I ever get on my feet again
Then I'll meet my long lost friends
It's mighty strange, without a doubt
Nobody knows you when you down and out
I mean when you down and out

Mmmmmmmm when you're down and out
Mmmmmmmm not one penny
And my friends I haven't any friends?
Mmmmmmmm Well I felt so low when I fell so low
Nobody wants me round their door
Mmmmmmmm Without a doubt,
No man can use you wen you down and out when
I mean when you down and out