The signifying monkey is a character of African-American folklore that derives from the trickster figure of Yoruba mythology, Esu Elegbara.
[2] Numerous songs and narratives concern the signifying monkey and his interactions with his friends, the lion and the elephant.
In general, the stories depict the signifying monkey insulting the lion, but claiming that he is only repeating the elephant's words.
The routine can also be heard as the dad has fallen asleep and Kid sneaks out the door (having been now grounded for an incident at school) to attend the party.
In the 1981 George A. Romero film Knightriders, the following is sung at a post-tournament campfire gathering: (Verse:) Said the signifyin' monkey / To the lion one day / There's a great big elephant / Down the way / Going around talking / I am sorry to say / 'Bout you mama / In a scandalous way / He's talking 'bout your mama / And your grandma too / He ain't got too much respect for you / You wanna chat?