Street
knees up mother brown
What does knees up mother brown mean?
A traditional Cockney song and lively high-kicking dance, the essence of a good East End 'knees-up'.
"By closing time they were all doing Knees Up Mother Brown."
Origin
Popular music-hall song associated with the East End, widely sung from the early 20th century.
Frequently asked questions
What is 'Knees Up Mother Brown'?
It's a traditional Cockney song and a lively, high-kicking dance, seen as the essence of a good East End party or 'knees-up'.
Where does it come from?
It's a popular music-hall song strongly associated with London's East End, widely sung from the early 20th century.
What is a 'knees-up'?
A knees-up is a boisterous party with dancing, and this song is its classic soundtrack.
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