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?