So where have ya been my Johnny, Johnny? And where have ya been my Johnny-O?
You’ve been down to the orphanage. Were ya down there messing with the girls? I can tell ya been there John, for I see you’re back with your hair in curls. Did the nuns they chase ya John? Or were you able to steal a kiss? Or did Sister Kearney rough ya up? Don’t come to my table looking like this.
[Chorus:] Where have ya been my Johnny, Johnny? Where have ya been my Johnny-O? You’ve been down there with the girls. Did ya wash the germs right off of your nose?
You’ve been down to the publican. For I see you look a might distressed. Your clothes are tattered, your shoes are worn, and you’ve spewed up on your Sunday best. Don’t you want to be a good boy, smart in school, and be profound? Get your ass up off of my chair, and you let Mr. McGuire sit down.
[Chorus]
And where have ya been my Johnny, Johnny? And where have ya been my Johnny-O?
Now Mr. McGuire is takin’ you, for I won’t raise a heathen child. We’re putting you into a home, you can’t live here, you’re far too wild. Don’t you think you’ll like it there? You act like a criminal, it’s what you get. You’re in need of good reform. They’ll pound you ‘til you thank ‘em for it.
[Chorus]
And where have ya been my Johnny, Johnny? And where have ya been my Johnny-O? And where have ya been my Johnny, Johnny? And where have ya been my Johnny-O?