Full Lyrics
Hush, little baby, don't say a word,
Mama's gonna buy you a mockingbird.
And if that mockingbird don't sing,
Mama's gonna buy you a diamond ring.
And if that diamond ring turns brass,
Mama's gonna buy you a looking glass.
And if that looking glass gets broke,
Mama's gonna buy you a billy goat.
And if that billy goat won't pull,
Mama's gonna buy you a cart and bull.
And if that cart and bull turn over,
Mama's gonna buy you a dog named Rover.
And if that dog named Rover won't bark,
Mama's gonna buy you a horse and cart.
And if that horse and cart fall down,
You'll still be the sweetest little baby in town.
About This Song
"Hush Little Baby" is a traditional American lullaby thought to have originated in the Southern United States during the 19th century. Unlike many lullabies that focus on sleep imagery, this song tells a cumulative story of a parent's unconditional love.
The song features a chain of gifts, each one replacing the last when it fails to satisfy. The genius of the lullaby is in its final verse, which reassures the child that regardless of material gifts, they are loved just as they are.