De Kleine Man

"De Kleine Man" (translation: The Little Man) is a 1923 Dutch-language protest song, written by and first recorded by Louis Davids. It's a socially conscious song, sympathizing with civilians who are often victims of the government.^[1] During Davids' lifetime it was considered his signature song.^[2]

History[]

Van Tol wrote the song for the revue Lach en Vergeet (1929) by Dutch comedian and singer Louis Davids. The song describes how odd and unfair it is that some people are so rich, while others are poor. It also criticizes funding for unemployed people and how politicians yell at each other and spent millions on military defense, while the average little man has to pay for all this. The original lyrics make reference to U.S. boxer Jack Dempsey who is criticized for earning millions by just having himself pound to pulp, not to mention his opponent.^[3]

Cover versions[]

In 1930 the song was parodied by as De Kleine Vrouw (The Little Woman). Davids spoofed his own song later as De Kleine Hond (The Little Dog).^[4] The original songwriter, Jacques Van Tol, also rewrote the lyrics during World War II to promote the NSB party. His version had antisemitic lyrics and was performed during Zondagmiddagcabaret van Paulus de Ruiter (1940-1944). Interestingly enough Louis Davids was Jewish.^[5]

Other artists who've covered "De Kleine Man" include (1930), (1930), Jetty Pearl (1941), Wim Sonneveld (1959), (1969), André van Duin (1970), Wim De Craene (1973) and . All modern covers have updated the lyrics.^[6]

Sources[]