: References to "hidey deadly black tarantula" were literal warnings about venomous spiders often found in the banana bunches. Cultural Significance
: The traditional call-and-response style used in the song served to build community and synchronize the rhythm of labor among workers. Pop Culture Legacy Harry Belafonte- Day-O Lyrics Video
While its roots are in heavy labor, the song has achieved massive recognition through modern media: : References to "hidey deadly black tarantula" were
: It is famously featured in the dinner party possession scene in Tim Burton's 1988 film Beetlejuice . : The repeated refrain "Daylight come and me
: The repeated refrain "Daylight come and me wan' go home" literally describes the workers waiting for the sun to rise so their grueling shift can end.
: It has been performed in varied settings, from The Muppet Show with Harry Belafonte himself to being used as a distraction in Legends of Tomorrow .