From the musical “Banjo Eyes,” 1941
Words by John Latouche
Music by Vernon Duke
The sheet music:
Lyrics
I am not a Rockefeller
With a million bucks in my cellar
I’m squeezing by on a living wage
But why should I mind?
It’s a wonderful age
For, though I’m down to my last five cents
Life is really swell and love can weave a spell
Thanks to Alexander Graham Bell
Chorus:
I’ve got a nickel to my name
And darling I’ll spend it to get you on the phone
I hear you whispering my name, my darling
And then for five minutes we’re alone
I’m as happy as a pup
As you tell me foolish things
Till the operator rings “Your time is up, I’m sorry”
With not a nickel to my name, my darling
I wouldn’t take a million for the joy we own