The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #2198   Message #20288
Posted By: Jon W.
30-Jan-98 - 05:03 PM
Thread Name: Lyr Req/Add: songs by Blind Lemon Jefferson
Subject: Lyr Add: Prison Cell Blues (Blind Lemon Jefferson)
I don't have any of the song you asked for, but I see Earl had a couple of them. Here's another one I like.

PRISON CELL BLUES
(Blind Lemon Jefferson)

Gettin' tired of sleepin' in this low-down lonesome cell.
Lord, I wouldn't been here if it hadn't a-been for Nell.

Lay awake at night an' just cant eat a bite.
Used to be my rider but you just wont't treat me right.

Got a red-eyed captain, and a squabblin' boss
Got a mad-dog sergeant, honey, an' he won't knock off.

I'm gettin' tired of sleepin' in this low-down lonesome cell.
Lord, I wouldn't been here if it hadn't a-been for Nell.

I asked the government to knock some days off my time.
For the way I'm treated, I'm 'bout to lose my mind.

I wrote the governor to please turn me a-loose.
Since I didn't get no answer, I know it t'ain't no use.

I'm gettin' tired of sleepin' in this low-down lonesome cell.
Lord, I wouldn't been here if it hadn't a-been for Nell.

I hate to turn over and find my rider gone.
Walks across my floor, lordie how I moan.

Lord, I wouldn't been here if it hadn't a-been for Nell.
I'm gettin' tired of sleepin' in this low-down an' lonesome cell.