"Why Don't You Do Right" is a song originally written by Kansas Joe McCoy in 1936, but it gained popularity when Peggy Lee recorded it in 1942. Julie London's rendition was also well-received. The lyrics tell the story of a woman in a troubled relationship with a man who has lost all his money. She questions why he doesn't make an effort to better his situation like other men do. In the song, the woman expresses her frustration and disappointment with her partner's lack of initiative. She urges him to get his act together and find a way to provide for her, just as other men do. The woman remarks on how sitting around without money will only lead to being cast aside and facing hardships. The lyrics also emphasize the importance of being prepared and making wise choices in life. The suggestion is that if the man had taken action and planned for the future years ago, he wouldn't be struggling and dependent on others at present. Overall, "Why Don't You Do Right" explores themes of financial responsibility, motivation, and the consequences of not taking action. The woman in the song is frustrated by her partner's lack of effort and yearns for him to step up and provide for her, just as other men do.
