I don't drink coffee, I take tea my dear Some extra rice, please, on the side And you can hear it in my accent when I talk I'm an African in New York See me walking down One Sixteen Dried fish and cowry tableside There's pride and beauty in my walk I'm an African in New York Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien I'm an African in New York Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien I'm an African in New York I drive my taxi down grand avenues They always ask me where I'm from Is it that sad place that's in the news? And is that the reason why I've come? Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien I'm an African in New York Oh, I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien I'm an African in New York Modesty, propriety I'm not the only one Gentleness, sobriety Shines brighter than the sun "Fais comme chez toi sans oublier", they said Even though you're here to stay It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile Be yourself no matter what they say Be yourself no matter what they say I'm an African I'm an African I'm an African