The lyrics describe a scene where sailor boys are leaving, and people are enjoying their chorus singing. The protagonist tells a brown-skinned girl to stay home and mind the baby as he goes away on a sailing boat, warning that if he doesn't come back, she should continue to stay home and take care of the child. The song also reflects on Americans invading an island and leaving the native boys behind to look after their children.

Read more
image

Meaning of "Brown Skin Girl" by Harry Belafonte


"Brown Skin Girl" by Harry Belafonte delves into themes of responsibility, abandonment, and racial dynamics. The protagonist, a sailor boy, addresses a brown-skinned girl, possibly implying an interracial relationship. As he leaves, he warns her to stay home and take care of their child, hinting at a sense of obligation or duty. The mention of Americans invading the island and leaving native boys behind highlights issues of colonization and exploitation. The song touches upon the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and the weight of responsibility, all set against the backdrop of departing sailors and changing dynamics within a community.