Sweet Patuti (Sweet Potato) - Mary Heanu


E lei, lei ke aloha
Ke aloha ho`ohenoheno
Aia hoapili mau no`u
Mai noha a ho`opoina `oe

A he sweet he ona he patuti
He `inisinisi mâlie
A he sweet he ona he patuti
He `inisinisi mâlie


Wear the lei, lei of love
Love to be cherished
There my constant companion
Don't you ever forget

A sweet attraction
As a gentle pinch
A sweet attraction
As a gentle pinch


Source: Hailama Farden Collection - This mele was introduced at a church function in 1937, by Mary Heanu. She may not be the composer but is credited with introducing the song. Sweet Patuti or Sweet Potato is a term of endearment used in the Southern States.