Villikins and his Dinah

"Villikins and his Dinah" (Laws M31A/B, Roud 271) is a stage song which emerged in England in 1853 as a burlesque version of a traditional ballad called "William and Dinah." It's great popularity led to the tune being later adopted for many other songs, such as "Sweet Betsy from Pike."

"Villikins and his Dinah"
Early sheet music cover
Song by Frederick Robson
Published1853
Composer(s)Unknown, sometimes attributed to "John Parry"
Lyricist(s)Traditional with additions, possibly by E.L.Blanchard