Baa Baa Black Sheep Lyrics

"Baa, Baa, Black Sheep" is one of the oldest and most beloved English nursery rhymes, known for its simple question-and-answer format and memorable melody. The rhyme tells the story of a black sheep who generously shares three bags of wool with its master, dame, and a little boy who lives down the lane. Its catchy rhythm and easy-to-remember lyrics have made it a favorite among young children for centuries, and it continues to be one of the first songs taught in early childhood education around the world.

Complete Lyrics

Baa, baa, black sheep,
Have you any wool?
Yes, sir, yes, sir,
Three bags full;
One for my master,
And one for my dame,
and one for the little boy
Who lives down the lane.

A little bit of history

The origins of "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep" can be traced back to at least 1731, when it first appeared in print in Tommy Thumb's Pretty Song Book, one of the earliest published collections of nursery rhymes. However, the rhyme likely existed in oral tradition long before this written record. Many historians believe the rhyme may reference the medieval wool tax imposed in England during the 13th century under King Edward I, where a third of the price of a sack of wool went to the king (the master), a third to the church (the dame), and only a third remained for the farmer (the little boy).

Another interpretation suggests the rhyme reflects the social hierarchy and economic conditions of medieval England, where wool was a major commodity and the wool trade was highly regulated. The "black sheep" may have been considered less valuable than white sheep since their wool couldn't be dyed, making them a metaphor for something or someone different from the norm. Over time, this association contributed to the phrase "black sheep of the family" meaning an outcast or someone who doesn't fit in.

Despite various theories about its historical meaning, "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep" has transcended its possible origins to become a universally loved children's song. The rhyme shares its melody with "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" and the "Alphabet Song," making it even more recognizable. Today, the rhyme is primarily enjoyed for its simple, pleasant rhythm and serves as an early introduction to poetry, music, and language patterns for young children worldwide.

Memorizing Baa Baa Black Sheep

"Baa, Baa, Black Sheep" is one of the shortest and easiest nursery rhymes to memorize, making it perfect for young children. The rhyme follows a simple question-and-answer format:

  • Opening: The greeting to the black sheep
  • Question: "Have you any wool?"
  • Answer: "Yes, sir, yes, sir, three bags full"
  • Distribution: One for the master, one for the dame, and one for the little boy down the lane

The repetitive structure and the familiar melody (shared with "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star") make this rhyme incredibly easy to remember. It's often one of the first nursery rhymes children learn. The Lines app can help reinforce memorization through interactive practice.