What is the origin of this tune?

Factual Questions
1

It goes like this: dum dumdum dum dum, dumdum Or is it a rhythm? It’s hard for me to describe, but I can guarantee that you will know what I’m talking about. You’ve definitely heard it. It’s often the rhythm that people knock on doors with. But there’s definitely a tune associated with it.

You may think this is crazy; after all, how I can communicate a tune by using three letter sounds. But, again, keep saying it out loud and it will suddenly make sense: dum dumdum dum dum, dumdum

Where did this musical expression come from?

2

I think you mean “shave and a haircut - two bits.”

Sorry, but I don’t know where it comes from.

3

IIRC, the words go ‘Shave and a haircut, two bits’. I wish I had perfect pitch or an instrument with me so I could note how the tune goes…

4

Thank you, thank you.

On a telephone it goes: 9 4421 6 6

5

Not on my phone; I’m logged on!
(Oops!) :wink:

6

I’m not sure if this is the tune you are all talking about, but if what i’m thinking is rite, some of the Nokia mobile phones have this tune. It is one of the Ringing Tones offered in the mobile, called “That’s It”.

However, I too don’t know the origin ;p

7

That shave and a haircut thing is what I thought of, or it might be from a finaly on a tap-dance number.

Dum dumdum dum dum. dum dum
shave anda hair-cut. two bits

tap taptap tap tap! Taaap taaap
Gofy huh

8

A Mental picture that’s forming:

Old lady answers the phone:

“Hello?? Yes, this is 941-2166. Who is this? … Who? No, I don’t do shaves or haircuts. Two Bits? I would think that would run you at least 9 or 10 dollars. Are you trying to call the Barber’s? Very well then, Goodbye.”

She hangs up.

“Hiram, we need to get our number changed…that’s the third call like that in 45 minutes…”