From the sheet music at Tulane University: MAMA'S GONE, GOOD BYE Words and music by Peter Bocage and A. J. Piron. (New York: Clarence Williams Music Publishing Co., 1924.) VERSE: I've been itching mighty long To sing you this little song. It's the separation blues, And I'm offering no excuse. You have been mighty mean To this sweet precious queen, And someday you'll realize What you're losing in this prize. CHORUS: Fare thee well; Mama's gone; goodbye. No use to cry. No use to sigh. For years you've dogged me 'round. Now's the time To let you know what's on my mind. I'm goin' away. Don't ask me to stay. Fare thee well. I've been to school, Learned a brand new rule. I ain't no fool. I'm goin' to get a man to treat me right, One who'll stay home ev'ry night. Fare thee well. Mama's gone; goodbye. [There are numerous recordings on Spotify. Some are instrumental only. I haven't listened to them all, but I noticed there are vocal versions by Sippie Wallace, Clara Smith, Peggy Lee, Midge Williams, and several others.]
|