Lyrics with no parentheses indicate a solo.
Lyrics in single parentheses indicate backup singer(s) only.
Lyrics in double parentheses indicate the main group and backup
singer(s) together.

Instrumental intro with rhythmic clanking sounds.

I got an old mule and her name is Sal.
Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal.
She's a good old worker and a good old pal.
Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal.
(Ha-ummm.)

We've hauled some barges in our day,
Filled with lumber, coal, and hay.
And every inch of the way we know,
From Albany{1} to Buffalo{2}.
(Ha-ummm.)

((Low bridge,)) everybody ((down.))
((Low bridge,)) for we're coming to a town.
(Ha-ummm.)

We were forty miles from Albany,
Forget that I never shout.
(I never shout.)
What a terrible storm,
We had that night.
((On the Eee-rye-eee Canal.))
Find more similar lyrics on http://mp3lyrics.com/GYuy
The Eee-rye-eee was a-risin',
The gin was a-gettin' low.
(Was gettin' low.)
And I scarcely think,
I'll get a drink,
((Till we get to Buffalo.))

Short instrumental break (same as intro).

I got an old mule and her name is Sal.
Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal.
She's a good old worker and a good old pal.
Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal.
(Ha-ummm.)

We've hauled some barges in our day,
Filled with lumber, coal, and hay.
And every inch of the way we know,
From Albany to Buffalo.
(Ha-ummm.)

((Low bridge,)) everybody ((down.))
((Low bridge,)) for we're coming to a town.
And you'll always know your neighbor,
And you'll always know your pal,
If ya ever navigated
((On the Eee-rye-eee Canal.))