A 1920 song published in Ottawa, Kansas. The “Central” telephone operator was reached by calling 9-9. Words by Henry McCurdy. Music by S. Gordon Saunders.
Sheet Music
Accompaniment
Lyrics
Chorus
I’ve got the blues, those 99 blues, such awful blues
I don’t know what to do, but that’s my fate
Every time I call that place, Central says:
“Old fellow, you’ve pulled a bone, leave her alone
They’ve only got one telephone”
Each night I have a fight to get the line
And when I call 99, hear this reply
“Well, if you want to talk to your sweetie fair
You’ll have to send the message through the air
Oh, boy, I’ve got those 99 blues
Performance
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I will only recommend products that I have personally used! Learn more on my Private Policy page.