Once I lived the life of a millionaire
Spent all my money, I didn't care
Took all my friends out for a mighty good time
Bought bootleg whisky, champagne and wine

Then I began to fall so low
I didn't have any friend, I had nowhere to go
I get my hands on a dollar again
I'm gonna hold on to it till that eagle grins

Because
Nobody knows you
When you're down and out
In my pocket, not one penny
And as for friends, 
Well, I don't have any

If I ever get on my feet again
Everybody wants to be my old long-lost friend
Said it's mighty strange, without a doubt
Nobody knows you when you're down and out
Oh, when you're down and out

So, if I ever get on my feet again
Everybody wants to be my old long-lost friend
Said it's kind of strange, without a doubt
Nobody knows you when you're down and out
I mean when you're down and out
When you're down and out