Buffalo Gals was written in 1844 by John Hodges and first performed in New York City. Originally titled Lubly Fan, the song became widely known as “Buffalo Gals” and circulated through minstrel, parlor, and later folk traditions. It has been recorded by artists including Burl Ives, Woody Guthrie, and Gene Autry. This performance features mandolin and voice. Details: – Song: Buffalo Gals – Written by: John Hodges (1844), United States – Originally titled: Lubly Fan – Mandolin & voice: Jason Paul
Jason Paul · The song collection1844
Buffalo Gals
The performance
2 recordingsPerformance 1
Buffalo Gals [1844] – John Hodges | Jason Paul, mandolin and voice
February 19, 2026
Lyrics and chords
Chorus
A Buffalo gals won't you come out tonight
E7come out tonight, Acome out tonight
Buffalo gals won't you come out tonight
and E7dance by the light of the Amoon
Verse 1
As AI was lumbering Ddown Athe street
E7down the street, Ddown Athe street
a handsome gal I Dchanced Ato meet
oh E7she was fair to Aview
Verse 2
I Aasked her if she'd Dhave Aa talk
E7have a talk, Dhave Aa talk
her feet took up the Dwhole Asidewalk
as E7she stood close to Ame
Verse 3
I Aasked her "would you Dwant Ato dance,
E7want to dance, Dwant Ato dance"
I thought that I would Dhave Aa chance
to E7shake a foot with Aher
Verse 4
oh I Adanced with the girl with a Dhole Ain her stockin
and her E7hip kept a rockin and her Dtoe Akept a knockin
I danced with the gal with the Dhole Ain her stockin
and we E7danced by the light of the Amoon
Verse 5
I Awanna make that Dgal Amy wife
E7gal my wife,D gal Amy wife
then I'd be happy Dall Amy life
if E7I had her with Ame