"Mr. Bojangles" is not a song by John Denver but rather a famous song written and originally recorded by Jerry Jeff Walker in 1968. However, John Denver also famously covered the song in his live performances and included it on his album "Back Home Again" in 1974. The song tells the story of a man named Bojangles, who is a street performer and dancer. Bojangles is portrayed as a worn-out and downtrodden individual, with silver hair, ragged clothes, and worn-out shoes. He dances and performs a soft shoe routine for others, bringing joy to their lives with his talent. The narrator of the song reveals that they met Bojangles in a jail cell in New Orleans. Bojangles shares stories of his life and experiences, often laughing and telling jokes. He speaks about his travels with his dog, who eventually passed away after 15 years, leaving him heartbroken. Bojangles explains that he now dances at various places, including minstrel shows, county fairs, and honky-tonks, in exchange for drinks and tips. However, he also spends a considerable amount of time behind bars due to his drinking habit. Throughout the song, Bojangles is depicted as a troubled and lonely figure, finding solace in his dance and music. The song explores themes of loss, resilience, and the power of artistic expression as a way to cope with life's hardships. The lyrics of "Mr. Bojangles" highlight the pain and struggles of a character who tries to find happiness and escape through his dancing, despite the difficulties that life has thrown his way. The song has resonated with many listeners over the years and continues to be a beloved and iconic piece of music.
