by Ida Cox
recording of 1999
from Let the Good Times Roll: The Music of Louis Jordan (MCA 12042), copyright notice

I once lived the life of a millionaire
Spending my money I didn't care
Always taking my friends out for a good time
Buying champagne, gin and wine
But just as soon as my dough got low
I couldn't find a friend, no place I go
If I ever get my hands on a dollar again
I'm gonna squeeze it, and squeeze it
Till the eagle grins

Nobody knows you when you're down and out
In your pocket, not one penny
And your friends, you haven't any
And as soon as you get on your feet again
Everybody is your long lost friend
It's mighty strange, without a doubt, but
Nobody wants you when you're down and out

You know folks, I once had a mansion
Way up on the side of a hill
I'd give champagne and caviar parties
Just for fun and get a thrill
But you know things they just can't stay like that forever
And now I can't muscle up enough money
To buy a shot of gin

But you know, if I ever get my hands on a dollar again
I'm gonna squeeze it, and squeeze it till the eagle grins
It's mighty strange, without a doubt
Nobody wants you
Nobody needs you
Nobody wants you when you're down and out