Song Character Analysis Worksheet - The University of North ...

“Can’t Help Lovin’ ‘dat Man”
As suggested in Chapter Four, this melody is a unifying leitmotiv for the entire
musical (second only to “Ol’ Man River”). The first appearance of the complete song is
during the second scene, set in the Cotton Blossom’s kitchen pantry. The song’s function
is as a “prop” song for Julie, in the strictest sense of the term. She sings it to Magnolia as
one of her favorite childhood songs. Queenie is surprised to hear that “Miss Julie” knows
this particular “colored” song and joins in on the second verse to describe her relationship
with Joe. The duet becomes an ensemble number for the African-American chorus as an
accompaniment for Magnolia while she practices her “shuffle” dance steps. The lyrics of
this song are revelatory for both Julie and Queenie’s characters. It anticipates the mis-
cegenation scene of Julie’s mixed racial heritage and it shows her vulnerability as a
strong woman trapped by her love for Steve, who is not worthy. The song also provides
insight for Queenie’s true affection for Joe, even when she harasses him and calls him
“worthless.”
Similar to “Make Believe,” the song begins with an introductory version of the
Refrain, followed by dialogue underscoring, then Verse and Refrain. I will chart the
lyrics of the Refrain first.
Refrain: Fish got to swim, [’] birds got to fly, (✓)
I got to love one man til I die. (✓)
Can’t help lovin’ ‘dat man of mine. (✓)
Tell me he’s lazy, tell me he’s slow, (✓)
Tell me I’m crazy [’] (maybe [’] I know), (✓)
Can’t help [’] lovin’ ‘dat man of mine. (✓)
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