About the song
Introducing “Dooley” by The Darlings, a delightful bluegrass tale that has charmed audiences for generations with its catchy melody and whimsical lyrics. Originally composed by brothers Arthur “Art” and Preston “Red” Foley, this timeless classic has become a cornerstone of the bluegrass genre, showcasing The Darlings’ exceptional musicianship and infectious energy.
The Darlings, a fictional family band portrayed on the popular television series “The Andy Griffith Show,” brought “Dooley” to life with their spirited performances. The song was featured in the show’s third season, where it quickly became a fan favorite, epitomizing the rural charm and humor of Mayberry, North Carolina.
While specific chart positions for “Dooley” may not be available due to its tie-in with a television series, its enduring popularity and cultural impact are undeniable. The song’s whimsical narrative, which tells the tale of a moonshiner named Dooley and his infamous exploits, resonated with audiences, earning it a special place in the hearts of fans of traditional American music.
“Dooley” was included on The Darlings’ album “The Andy Griffith Show,” a collection of songs performed by the fictional band. Despite its fictional origins, the album showcased the talents of real-life bluegrass musicians such as Doug Dillard, Dean Webb, and Rodney Dillard, who brought authenticity and charm to their performances as The Darlings.
Through “Dooley,” The Darlings invite listeners to join them in a rollicking adventure through the backwoods of Mayberry, where moonshine flows and laughter abounds. As a beloved favorite among fans of bluegrass and classic television alike, “Dooley” continues to evoke smiles and fond memories, ensuring that The Darlings’ musical legacy lives on for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
Dooley was a good ole man
He lived below the mill
Dooley had two daughters
And a forty-gallon still
One gal watched the boiler
The other watched the spout
And mama corked the bottles
And ole Dooley fetched ’em out.
Dooley slippin’ up the holler
Dooley try to make a dollar
Dooley give me a swaller
And I’ll pay you back someday.
The revenuers came for him
A-sippin’ though the woods
Dooley kept behind them all
And never lost his goods
Dooley was a trader
When into town he’d come
Sugar by the bushel
And molasses by the ton.
Dooley slippin’ up the holler
Dooley try to make a dollar
Dooley gimme a swaller
And I’l pay you back someday.
I remember very well
The day ole Dooley died
The women folk weren’t sorry
And the men stood round and cried
Now Dooleys on the mountain
He lies there all alone
They put a jug beside him
And a barrel for his stone.
Dooley slippin’ up the holler
Dooley try to make a dollar
Dooley gimme a swaller
And I’ll pay you back someday.