This Old Man is a traditional English nursery rhyme and counting song. The lyrics are simple and tedious, making it a popular choice for children’s entertainment and education. The song is often used to teach counting and rhythm.
Raffi, a well-known Canadian children’s musician, included “This Old Man” in his range, bringing the classic nursery rhyme to a new generation of listeners. Raffi’s version retains the original playful and educational spirit of the song, highlighting its sing-along and mutual nature. His recordings of such conventional songs have been important in children’s music, mix timeless lyrics with appealing melodies and arrangements.
Raffi’s explanation of “This Old Man” is part of his broader body of work, which focuses on generate positive, child-friendly music that inspire learning and development through fun and accessible songs. His version of the song is featured on several of his albums, including the popular “Singable Songs for the Very Young,” which has been a staple in children’s music since its release.
Lyrics
This old man, he plays one
He plays one on his old drum, oh yes, yes-yes, uh-huh
Well, he plays one on his old drum, uh-huh
This old man, he plays two
He plays two on his kazoo, oh yes, yes-yes, uh-huh
He plays two on his kazoo, uh-huh
This old man, he plays three
He plays three on his ukulele, uh-huh, yes, yes, uh-huh
He plays three on his ukulele, uh huh
Hear him play!
This old man, he plays four
He play four on his guitar, oh yes (knick knack pattywack)
Yes-yes, uh-huh (give a dog a bone, knick knack pattywack, give a dog a bone)
He plays four on his guitar, uh-huh
This old man, he plays five
He plays five with his friend Clive, oh yes
Yes, yes, uh-huh
He plays five with his friend Clive, uh-huh
Take it, Clive!
Knick knack! Paddywack!
Knick knack! Paddywack!
This old man, he plays one
This old man, he plays two
This old man, he plays three
This old man, he plays four
This old man, he plays five
Knick knack! Paddywack!