Updated February 2010 with a third verse by my 40-year pal, Ray Bierl (www.RayBierl.com). Ray sang this verse at the 2008 CD release gig, but it took a while for the verse to grow on me. I’ll be singing it as part of the song from now on. Thank you, Ray!

Released on Places I’ve Been, 2008. Mayne played resophonic guitar; Johnny Harper, lead guitar; Sam Page, bass fiddle. (Previously released by my sister, Janet Smith, on her 1971 LP, The Unicorn.)

When I wrote it in 1966, I was anticipating in my twenties how I’d feel now about my youthful years. I’m pleased to say it still rings true. I have no idea what to call the musical style. Have I written a pop song?

Back in my dancing days my fancy-prancing handsome phase
I had an awful lot to learn
Folks used to laugh at me for living carelessly
I thought that money was to burn

CHORUS
But I was living, I had my fun
I took my troubles on the run
I wouldn’t trade you the moon and sun
For my fancy-prancing handsome-dancing days

Back in my dancing days my fancy-prancing handsome phase
I burned the candle at both ends
I made some enemies, guys who were hard to please
I took no time to make amends

CHORUS

Now the years go dancing by like clouds across an autumn sky
But my dancing days I never will forget
So gather round my longtime friends, strike up that band again
There’s still a dance in the old dog yet

CHORUS 2
But I was living, I had my fun
I took my troubles on the run
I wouldn’t trade you the moon and sun
For my fancy-prancing, low-financing
High-romancing, handsome-dancing days