See You Later, Alligator – Bill Haley & His Comets
The Original
When Bill Haley & His Comets released “See You Later, Alligator” in 1956, rock ’n’ roll showed its playful side. Built on a bouncing rhythm, catchy call-and-response lyrics, and a sense of pure fun, the song became a worldwide hit almost overnight. Originally written and recorded by Louisiana songwriter Bobby Charles, Haley’s upbeat version helped turn a witty R&B tune into a pop-culture phenomenon. With its unforgettable refrain and dance-ready groove, “See You Later, Alligator” remains one of early rock’s most joyful classics.
Listen to the Gig Based Learning Version You'll Be Playing
(For Lower Voices)
(For Higher Voices)
Jumping into “See You Later, Alligator” is all about feel and fun. Our super-easy tutorials break the song down for guitar, bass, drums, keys, piano, and vocals, focusing on one instrument at a time. You’ll learn the swinging rhythm, tight band hits, and playful vocal phrasing that give the song its irresistible bounce. Whether you’re driving the groove or singing the hook, you’ll be playing along with confidence in no time.
Practise your part with our guided practice sessions
Rehearse your part with our backing tracks
Share your part using our lyric sheets and charts
Use these to get started, then try to rely on them less each time. Some gigs need more reading than others, but when you can, practise playing with your eyes up so you can respond to your bandmates and what’s happening in the room.
See You Later Alligator
(Bill Haley)
GBL Tempo = 140 bpm
(Drummer Count – 1,2,3,4. 1)
Well I saw my baby walkin’
With another man today
Well I saw my baby walkin’
With another man today
When I asked her what’s the matter?
This is what I heard her say
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
Can’t you see you’re in my way now?
Don’t you know you cramp my style?
When I thought of what she told me
Nearly made me lose my head
When I thought of what she told me
Nearly made me lose my head
But the next time that I saw her
Reminded her of what she said
She said, I’m sorry, pretty daddy
You know my love is just for you
She said, I’m sorry, pretty daddy
You know my love is just for you
Won’t you say that you’ll forgive me
And say your love for me is true
I said wait a minute ‘gator
I know you meant it just for play
I said wait a minute, ‘gator
I know you meant it just for play
Don’t you know you really hurt me
And this is what I have to say
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
Can’t you see you’re in my way now?
Don’t you know you cramp my style?
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
See you later alligator
After ‘while, crocodile
Can’t you see you’re in my way now?
Don’t you know you cramp my style?
Live performances by Bill Haley & His Comets
The Backstory
It started as an R&B hit:
“See You Later, Alligator” was written and first recorded by Bobby Charles in 1955. Bill Haley’s cover introduced the song to a global audience and helped bring R&B-influenced rock ’n’ roll into the pop mainstream.
A phrase that became iconic:
The song’s playful exchange—“See you later, alligator / After ’while, crocodile”—became part of everyday language, especially among teenagers in the 1950s.
Influence and Impact
A dance-floor favourite:
With its upbeat tempo and simple structure, the song became a staple of early rock ’n’ roll dancing and live performances.
A pop-culture staple:
“See You Later, Alligator” has appeared in films, television, and advertisements for decades, symbolising the carefree spirit of early rock music.
