“The Drunken Sailor” is one of the most well-known and enduring sea shanties, traditionally sung by sailors during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The song is a fun and lively tune that reflects the carefree and rebellious spirit of sailors, often sung while performing physical tasks on ships, such as hoisting sails or hauling ropes. The lyrics tell the story of a drunken sailor who has gotten into trouble, and the chorus asks the question, “What shall we do with a drunken sailor?” The verses

“Drunken Sailor” is a traditional sea shanty that dates back to at least the early 19th century. It was sung by sailors as a “work song” to help coordinate their efforts while hoisting sails or performing other tasks aboard a ship. The song follows a simple call-and-response structure, making it easy for crews to sing along. The lyrics repeatedly ask, “What shall we do with a drunken sailor?” and offer humorous or exaggerated suggestions, such as “Put him in the longboat till he’s sober” or “Sha