The Sheik of Araby

First a novel, then a movie, finally this 1921 song hit.
words by Harry B. Smith & Francis Wheeler
music by Ted Snyder

This intense song was the source of many other songs for years: In Dreamy Araby (1921), The Sheik of Avenue B (1922), etc.

The sheet music:

The-Sheik-of-Araby – Sheet MusicDownload

Accompaniment:

Sheik-of-Araby – MIDIDownload

Lyrics

  1. Over the desert wild and free
    Rides the bold Sheik of Araby
    His Arab band, at his command
    Follow his love’s caravan
    Under the shadow of the palms
    He sings to call her to his arms

Chorus
I’m the Sheik of Araby, your love belongs to me
At night when you’re asleep, into your tent I’ll creep
The stars that shine above, will light our way to love
You’ll rule this land with me, The Sheik of Araby

  1. While stars are fading in the dawn
    Over the desert they’ll be gone
    His captured bride, close by his side
    Swift as the wind they will ride
    Proudly he scorns her smile or tear
    Soon he will conquer love by fear

Sung here by Fred Feild: