Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-

Subject: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-1936
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:05 PM

The following songs are all from the 2-CD set, "Tampa Red, The Bluebird Recordings 1934-1936," RCA 07863 66721-2. The set contains all his known extant recordings on the Bluebird label, a low-priced subsidiary of Victor. That is, 42 out of 230 recordings made in his entire career from 1934 to 1953. Tampa Red sings and plays slide guitar and kazoo, sometimes backed up by a piano, string bass, 2nd guitar, and jug.

Subject: Lyr Add: I'LL KILL YOUR SOUL (AND DARE YOUR...)^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:07 PM

I'LL KILL YOUR SOUL (AND DARE YOUR SPIRIT TO MOVE)
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
You'd better pipe down, mama, and try to keep cool.
I'm dog-gone tired of your ones and twos.
I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.

I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
You've been staying out, mama, ever' night and ever' day,
And I know you been giving ever'thing away,
You dog, and I dare your spirit to move.

Yes, I'll kill your soul and I'll dare your spirit to move.
I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
If I catch you again where I caught you at last,
Off goes your head and I'll smother your YES!
Kill your soul, dare your spirit to move.

I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move, you know.
I'll kill your soul and dare your spirit to move.
I got a thirty-two-twenty on a forty-four frame,
And sure can't miss you when I've got dead aim.
You dog, and I dare your spirit to move.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: IF I LET YOU GET AWAY WITH IT ONCE...^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:08 PM

IF I LET YOU GET AWAY WITH IT ONCE (YOU'LL DO IT ALL OF THE TIME)
(Frost/Rose)

Now, if I let you get away with it once,
You'll do it all of the time.
Now, if you think I'm getting crazy 'bout you,
You'd better change your mind.
You had a sweet man, wouldn't cheat any more,
And had a dozen keys that fit in my back door,
But if I let you get away with it once,
You'll do it all of the time,
And I know it. You'll do it all of the time.

Now, if I let you get away with it once,
You'll do it all of the time.
Now, baby, if you think I'm getting crazy 'bout you,
You'd better change your mind.
I took you to be a better gal than that,
But what I caught you doing was really tight like that.
So if I let you get away with it once,
You'll do it all of the time,
And Tampa knows it. You'll do it all of the time.

Now, baby, if I let you get away with this mess this time,
You'll do it all of the time.
Now, if you think I'm getting crazy 'bout you,
You'd better change your mind.
Now, you say you went to see a picture show today,
But when you come home, didn't know the name of the play,
But if I let you get away with it once,
You'll do it all of the time,
And Tampa knows it. You'll do it all of the time.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Clarence Williams, Sidney Bechet, and Margaret Johnson. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I'LL FIND MY WAY^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:09 PM

I'LL FIND MY WAY
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

My baby gone and she throwed me down.
I'm just a newsome all over town.
CHO: But it don't matter what they say. I'll find my way.

Night by night and day by day,
I feel so blue and so throwed away. CHO.

She left me sick and dying on my bed,
Hoping and wishing that I were dead. CHO.

A gypsy told me to make a change,
'Cause I was just worrying and crying in vain. CHO.

I'm so mistreated and I'm done so bad,
Looks like each moment will be my last. CHO.

Minutes seem like hours. Hours seem like days.
I don't know whether to go or stay. CHO.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: YOU'VE GOT TO DO BETTER^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:10 PM

YOU'VE GOT TO DO BETTER
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Now, I work all day and I cry all night.
Woman, you know you ain't treating me right.
CHO: You've got to do better. You've got to do better.
You've got to do better or let another mama come in.

Now, I give you everything I could beg or steal,
But can't come home and get a decent meal. CHO.

You come home every night drunk and out your head.
I even have to bathe you and put you to bed. CHO.

Now, my food ain't fitting and my house ain't clean.
You're the dirtiest old woman I've ever seen. CHO.

Now, the food you cook will make a hound-dog sick.
Woman, I'd like to call you an old no-good WELL! CHO.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: KINGFISH BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:11 PM

KINGFISH BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Little minnows in the river, kingfish in the deep blue sea. (2x)
Lord, I got a gang of women crying to get a chance with me.

You may think it's all right, but, baby doll, can't you see? (2x)
Now, you know it dog-gone well, you are getting out of place with me.

I will play kingfish, babe, if you act just like the minnows do. (2x)
In case old Tampa Red should flutter, don't you be 'shamed to shoot.

Now, I'm a kingfishing papa and I know what kind of bait to choose.
I'm a kingfishing papa. I know what kind of bait to choose.
That's why so many women crying those kingfish blues.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Anna Belle Coleman. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: YOU DON'T WANT ME BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:12 PM

YOU DON'T WANT ME BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

You say you don't want me; I'm nothing but trouble on your hands. (2x)
So I'll go back to my woman and let you go back to your man.

Someday you're gonna be crying to my picture on the wall, (2x)
When your so-called friend has gone and left you with no love at all.

But if winning will make you happy, I wish you luck in every way. (2x)
But I know you're going to regret it and find your mistake out someday.

Now, my train's at the station and I have sent my folks the news. (2x)
You can tell the world I'm leaving you, which you don't want me to.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: NOBODY'S SWEETHEART NOW^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:13 PM

NOBODY'S SWEETHEART NOW
(Gus Kahn/Erdman/Schoebel/Billy Meyers)

Oh, you're nobody's sweetheart now.
It don't favor you somehow.
Fancy hose, silken gown,
You'd be out of place in your own hometown.
When you walk down the avenue,
The folks won't believe it's you,
Painted lips, painted eyes,
Wearing a bird of paradise.
It all seems wrong somehow
That you're nobody's sweetheart now.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Cab Calloway and Jack Teagarden. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I'M JUST CRAZY 'BOUT YOU^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:15 PM

I'M JUST CRAZY 'BOUT YOU
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Yes, I'm just crazy 'bout you.
Tell me that you love me too.
Then we will get together and forget the stormy weather,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you.

Yes, I'm just crazy 'bout you,
And I'm gonna make you love me too,
And if you want all my loving, you can have that too,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you.

Yes, I'm just crazy 'bout you.
Let your little heart be true,
'Cause there's nothing in the world I wouldn't do for you,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you.
Can't help it. I'm just crazy 'bout you.

Yes, I'm just crazy 'bout you.
No one else to blame but you.
Now your ways are so charming, till it keep me sad and longing,
'Cause I'm just crazy 'bout you,
And can't help it. I'm just crazy 'bout you.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I STILL GOT CALIFORNIA ON MY MIND^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:16 PM

I STILL GOT CALIFORNIA ON MY MIND
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Yes, I've still got California on my mind,
And I'm going back to the one I left behind.
Now, I can't walk for talking. I can't sleep for crying.
I messed up things by leaving someone so nice and kind.
I wrote her a letter. The answer was fine,
So I've still got California on my mind.

Yes, I've still got California on my mind,
And I'll go back if I have to ride the blinds.
Well, trouble and sorrow never have a chance.
Nothing's there to bother but love and sweet romance.
The sun keeps a-shining. The weather is fine,
So I've still got California on my mind.

The sun keeps shining. The weather is fine,
So I've still got California on my mind.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: GRIEVIN' AND WORRYIN' BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:17 PM

GRIEVIN' AND WORRYIN' BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I went down on the corner with my gun in my hand
To kill my woman 'bout loving another man.
CHO: 'Cause I'm grieving and worrying. Yes, I'm grieving and worrying.
Yes, I'm grieving and worrying, baby, 'bout the way you do.

Now, if I should call you, mama, and you refuse to come,
Heart Spring Water sure won't help you none. CHO.

Now, you call me in the morning and you call me late at night.
You swear that you love me but you sure don't treat me right. CHO.

Now, baby, I cried all night and all the night befo',
But if you can stand to leave me, I can stand to see you go. CHO.

Now, you say you're going to leave me all alone by myself,
But if you ever come back, baby, maybe I'll be loving someone else.
CHO: Then you'll be grieving and worrying. You'll be grieving and worrying.
You'll be grieving and worrying, baby, 'bout the way I do.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: GIVE IT UP BUDDY AND GET GOIN'^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:18 PM

GIVE IT UP BUDDY AND GET GOIN'
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Say there, fellow, what you trying to do?
You're trying to make her take it and she don't want you,
So give it up, buddy, and get going.
You strutted all summer like a Jersey bull.
You thought you had your bellyful.
So give it up, buddy, and get going.

You once had her loving, her sweet romance,
But you messed around and now you lost your chance.
You'd better listen to me,
For here's the best thing for you to do:
Treat her just like other strangers do,
And give it up, buddy, and get going.

So now, you're messing 'round 'cause you want to know
Who makes the fire while she pats the dough,
But give it up, buddy, and get going.

So don't be yellow. Take it like a man,
'Cause I'm here waiting just to call your hand.
So give it up, buddy, and get going.

You once had a chance to take her in your arms.
You had all of her love and you had all of her charms.
You'd better listen to me:
Your road is clear and it ain't no hill.
Don't say you won't, 'cause I know you will.
Give it up, buddy, and get going.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: SOMEBODY'S BEEN USING THAT THING^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:19 PM

SOMEBODY'S BEEN USING THAT THING
(Thomas A Dorsey, Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I went to see my gal. She wouldn't let me in.
She said she had company now; I would have to call again.
CHO: Somebody's been using that thing.
Somebody's been using that thing.
Sure as you're born, somebody's been a-using that thing.

Papa is the iceman. Mama likes to sing.
Sister got her armful for shaking that thing. CHO.

There's old Uncle Ben. He's nigh ninety-six.
He just got back from ... the thing fixed. CHO.

I had a gal. She was little and low.
She used to let me shake it but she don't no mo'. CHO.

There's old Jane. She bought herself a hat.
Believe it or not, the thing is tight like that. CHO.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Milton Brown, the Callahan Brothers, the Hokum Boys, Al Miller, Big Bill Broonzy, and Leadbelly. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: MEAN MISTREATER BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:20 PM

MEAN MISTREATER BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

You're a mean mistreating mama, and you don't mean me no good. (2x)
But I don't blame you, baby. I'd be the same way if I could.

You say you're going to leave me. Well, you say you're going away. (2x)
But that's all right, baby. Maybe you'll come back home someday.

Now, you're the mean mistreater and you mistreat me all the time. (2x)
But that's all right, baby. I won't pay that no mind.

Can't you remember, baby, when I knocked upon your door?
You had the nerve to tell me that you didn't want me no more.
Can you remember, baby, when I knocked upon your door?
And you had the nerve to tell me that you didn't want me no more.

Boys, ain't it lonesome sleeping all by yourself
When the woman that you're loving is loving someone else?
Boys, ain't it lonesome sleeping by yourself
When the woman that you're loving, boys, is loving someone else?

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Jimmie Gordon, Memphis Minnie, Magic Slim, Muddy Waters. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: HAPPY JACK^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:21 PM

HAPPY JACK
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Now, Happy Jack is so happy, he taken it after his pappy.
He never worries 'bout nothing at all but love.
Now, when he steps out strutting, the ladies all start flirting
With Happy Jack from down in Alabam'.

Now, when he dance, and when he sing, he's always got that swing.
The ladies all have figured out he must have got that certain thing.
For when he starts his hi-de-ho, the ladies all wish that they could go
With Happy Jack from down in Alabam'.

(Repeat)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I'M SO DISAPPOINTED IN YOU^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:22 PM

I'M SO DISAPPOINTED IN YOU
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I'm so disappointed, baby, in you.
For I once thought your little heart was true,
But when I asked you for love, you failed to give me bliss.
But, darling, we can't go on like this.
Then, after all is said and done,
I've seen I'm not the lucky one,
But I'm so disappointed, baby, in you.

Yes, I'm so disappointed, baby, in you,
For you're not doing as you promised to.
You said you would be true, but I found it just a boo(?).
For you're doing just as others want you to.
Then after all of my loving schemes,
It's a blank to me, it seems.
But I'm so disappointed, baby, in you.

Yes, I'm so disappointed, baby, in you,
For I just cannot stand the way you do.
You are breaking my heart each day just to pass the time away,
But darling, don't you know that ain't the play?
Now, I thought it was sweet romance,
But now I see I didn't have a chance,
But I'm so disappointed, baby, in you.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WORRIED DEVIL BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:23 PM

WORRIED DEVIL BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Everything I have's in pawn,
And the gal I love is gone,
And I'm a worried devil just as sure as you're born.
Now, people, you don't know,
But my heart is aching so.
She left me for another man that was living next door.

Now, life don't mean a thing
When your heart is full of pain,
And tears keep flowing just like showers of rain.
She wrecked all my future plans
And has left me cold in hand,
And I'm sitting here wond'ring how it all began.

Now, if I could only hold
My own heart right in my hand,
I would show all of you good people just what I have to stand.
But I just can't go on
When everything I had is gone,
And I'm a worried devil just as sure as you're born.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR'S BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:24 PM

CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR'S BLUES
(Irving)

Christmas is on me. New Year's will follow soon. (2x)
My Santa has quit me. That's why you'll hear me croon.

I hung up my stocking and I went straight to bed. (2x)
But when I woke up Christmas morning, thought I had an aching head.

I won't eat no turkey 'cause I ain't got a cent. (2x)
The landlord will put me out if I don't pay my rent.

New Year's, please tell me, what kind of love will you bring? (2x)
If I can't make it, my body sure will swing.

Christmas is on me, and I'm all alone.
Christmas is on me. Here I am all alone.
Oh, will some Santa help me and hear my lonesome moan?

Christmas is on me. People, how can I refuse?
Christmas is on me. Lord, how can I refuse?
If I don't get it by Christmas, I'll have the New Year's blues.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: SWEET WOMAN^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:25 PM

SWEET WOMAN
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Sweet woman, sweet woman, where did you stay last night?
Sweet woman, where did you stay last night?
You've got your dress on backwards and your clothes don't fit you right.

You've got something, you've got something that they call a stingaree.
You've got something that they call a stingaree.
And I believe to my soul you have put that thing on me.

At four this morning, at four this morning by the clock hanging on the wall,
At four this morning by the clock hanging on the wall,
She used to come home at midnight but now she don't come home at all.

I would be happy, I would be happy but I don't think it can be done.
I would be happy but I don't think it can be done.
For every time I think of my sweet woman, my heart beats like a drum.

I love my woman. I love my woman from her apron string on down.
I love my woman from her apron string on down.
She's got a new way of loving will make a rabbit hug a hound.

I'm going to find her. I'm going to fix her so she won't be bad no more.
I'm going to fix her so she won't be bad no more.
I'm going to chain her to my side and make her follow me everywhere I go.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Howlin' Wolf, Sonny Terry, Brownie McGhee, Bruce Edwin, Muddy Waters, Blind Boy Fuller. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I'LL GET A BREAK SOMEDAY^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:26 PM

I'LL GET A BREAK SOMEDAY
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

You hear me singing this lonesome song.
I've had more trouble than the days are long.
CHO: But after all my hard trials (?), I'll get a break someday.

Now, I am doing the best I can,
But my friend she don't understand. CHO.

She left me ill and in despair
With grief and worry everywhere. CHO.

Yes, I'm too sad, to be true,
But she left me helpless and awful blue. CHO.

You'll wonder why I weep and moan.
She wrecked my life and now she's gone. CHO.

Now, all I need is a helping hand
And some sweet woman that will understand.
CHO: Then...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. Also recorded by Casey Bill Weldon. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WITCHIN' HOUR BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:27 PM

WITCHIN' HOUR BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Oh, hush, look, and listen. That witching hour is here again. (2x)
With such a creepy old feeling, it's enough to drive a man insane.

Now, my doorknob's rattling. My chair's turning 'round and 'round. (2x)
I can hear strange voices and nobody can be found.

Now, my aggravating mama, she died 'bout a year ago. (2x)
And ever since she died, I been haunted everywhere I go.

Now, I'm afraid to holler. I'm even 'fraid to raise my hand.
'Fraid to holler. I'm afraid to raise my hand,
Because at that witching hour, she come in walking like a man.

When she was dying, I tell you people what she said to me: (2x)
Said, "Tampa, you're going to have witching hours, and I will linger in your memory."

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: STOCKYARD FIRE^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:29 PM

STOCKYARD FIRE
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Big trouble in the meat-house and it's all about that stockyard fire. (2x)
All of the poor people kicking because meat has gone up so higher.

Let me tell you people what that old stockyard fire will do. (2x)
It will have you eating one, and it will have you skipping two.

That old stockyard fire left people in misery. (2x)
It's got them set and wondering, Lord, what will the end be.

That old stockyard fire sure did raise some sand. (2x)
Lord, it's got so many people eating out of the garbage can.

Now, if these stockyard dealers could read these poor people's minds, (2x)
They would drop meat more lower and avoid worse than troubling times.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1934. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WORTHY OF YOU^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:30 PM

WORTHY OF YOU
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Sure as three and four are seven,
I'm on my way to heaven
Any time I'm on my way to see you.
It's above imagination
How I love and used to hate you.
Somehow I've grown so fonder of you.

You've got that certain smile that makes me feel so satisfied.
With you far or near, my heart is with you all the while.
Every step I take towards you
Makes me work so much ... harder
Trying to make myself more worthy of you.

(Repeat)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: IF IT AIN'T THAT GAL OF MINE^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:31 PM

IF IT AIN'T THAT GAL OF MINE
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Who's that walking down the street
Looking so dog-gone nice and neat?
Be d-o-g if I don't think it's Sally.
Rosy cheeks and mottled shape, (?)
Everything's all up to date.
Be d-o-g if I don't think it's Sally.
Cast your eyes into that direction.
Tell me, isn't that real perfection?
Fancy hose and silken gown,
The sweetest thing for miles around,
Be d-a-m if it ain't that gal of mine.

That gal runs a flat on Selmack (?) Road,
Making more money than Henry Fo'd.
Be d-o-g if I don't think it's Sally.
Selling her wine, liquor, and gin,
Sells it to the women and she sells it to the men.
Be d-o-g if I don't think it's Sally.
You men better call up and get information.
Then you will receive a free invitation.
Selling her liquor, her jellyroll too,
Sell it to the boys. So what you gone do?
Be d-a-m if it ain't that gal of mine.

You men best to call her for information.
Then you will receive a free invitation.
Sell her liquor, her jelly, too.
Sell it to the judge, so what you gonna do?
Be d-a-m if it ain't that gal of mine.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: MEAN OLD TOM CAT BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:32 PM

MEAN OLD TOM CAT BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

My Tommy and my she-cat they had a falling out,
But I ain't gone tell nobody what the mess was all about.
CHO: He's a mean old tomcat, mistreats her all the time.
He's a mean old tomcat. He's 'bout to drive that she-cat wild.

Now, the she-cat told the tomcat, "There's no need of you spitting and spewing,
'Cause what you got your mind on, buddy, there ain't a darn thing doing." CHO.

Now, when he bow up in his back and start to licking out his tongue,
He means to start trouble on a mighty fast run. CHO.

Old Tommy grabbed the she-cat, turned her every way but loose.
Folks, I would tell you more, but I guess it ain't no use. CHO.

Now, she is telling all the other cats around the neighborhood,
Says, "I would make him stop biting me, but he hurts me so good." CHO.

Now, when you see old Tommy creeping, don't you never play him slow.
When he makes his pass (?) he's got his ducks all in a row. CHO.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: DON'T DOG YOUR WOMAN^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:33 PM

DON'T DOG YOUR WOMAN
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I get the blues 'round about midnight and early with the rising sun.
I get to thinking about my sweet woman and all the good she done.
Then my heart beats just like a hammer and my eyes get full of tears.
She only been gone about twenty-four hours but it seems like a thousand years.
I shoulda loved her more. I know I didn't treat her right. (2x)
A woman like that needs loving every day and night.

Now the blues are piling up on me, but I brought it all on myself.
When I shoulda been loving my woman, I was out with somebody else.
Now it's a mighty hard pill to swallow, but I want all you men to know:
You better mind what you are sowing, 'cause you got to reap what you sow.
And don't never dog your woman when you know you're doing wrong yourself.
Don't never dog your woman when you know you're doing wrong yourself.
She'll get the devil in her mind and go wild about somebody else.

Now the river runs into the ocean and the ocean pours into the sea,
But if I don't find my sweet woman, somebody will have to bury me,
'Cause I love that woman better than I love myself.
I love that woman better than I love myself,
And it's breaking my heart to know she's with somebody else.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. Also recorded by Brownie McGhee, Buster Brown, and J. B. Lenoir. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: SINGING AND CRYING BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:34 PM

SINGING AND CRYING BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I got a feeling I never had before.
Trouble and sorrow keep knocking at my door,
But I have all to gain and nothing to lose.
I must have got the patience of Job.
What I go through with, nobody knows,
And yet I go on singing and crying the blues.

I'm just a lonely motherless child.
Troubles and sorrows are driving me wild,
But it will all be over after while.
I keep a-trying but can't get nowhere,
A gang of trouble and no one to care,
And yet I go on singing and crying the blues.

No decent clothes and I can't have no shoes.
Can't have no loving but yet I have the blues.
So, folks, you see I ain't got no time to lose.
My gal has whipped me and she's gone away,
But I'm just hoping that she'll come back some day,
And still I go on singing and crying the blues.

Why do my troubles last me so long?
I never bothered or done nobody wrong.
Ain't got no loving. Ain't got no place for home.
Soon I'll be lucky, and it won't be long,
With plenty of dollars and a gang of diamonds on,
And then I'll be through singing and crying the blues.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: SHAKE IT UP A LITTLE^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:35 PM

SHAKE IT UP A LITTLE
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Come on, all you women, and do us a dance.
You setting there looking just like you in a trance.
CHO: And shake it up a little. Oh, shake it up a little.
Shake it up a little every once in a while.

Now, if you can't drink liquor, then try a little wine.
You don't have to hurry. Just take your time.
CHO: And just shake...

Now, listen here, Bob, please don't be no fool.
You know you can't use that same old tool
CHO: Till you wipe it off a little. You got to wipe it off a little.
Oh, wipe it off a little every once in a while.

Now, you beautiful women and all you ugly men,
Come on and get together because it ain't no sin.
CHO: To shake...

Now my knock-kneed rooster and my slew-foot (or "bow-legged") hen,
They all sleep together but they ain't no kin.
CHO: Oh, they shake ...

Now you can buy good liquor for a dime (or "two bits") a shot.
Let's get it fixed (or "make it good") while that thing (or "stuff") is hot.
CHO: And just shake...

Now you gonna catch hell because you stayed so long.
You just well to get it fixed before you carry it home.
CHO: And shake...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: MY BABY SAID YES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:36 PM

MY BABY SAID YES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I'm falling in love again. Gray skies are all blue again.
My baby said yes instead of maybe.
My friends are all glad again to see me so gay again.
I can put that sunshine in my smile again.
I would cross the Great Divide just to see her smile,
And hear that same old story every once in a while.
I'm falling in love again, and gee, am I glad again!
My baby said yes instead of maybe.

(Repeat.)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. Also recorded by Frankie Carle, Ted Heath. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I'M BETTING ON YOU^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:37 PM

I'M BETTING ON YOU
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Now, listen, baby, don't you be no fool,
Stand there singing, trying to keep it cool,
CHO: 'Cause I'm betting on you. I'm betting on you.
So come on, babe, and tell me what you're gone to do.

Now, tell your man to don't think he's hot,
'Cause we're the guys to put him on the spot. CHO.

Now, you can laugh and dance and you can have your fun,
But when it come to loving, don't you give away none. CHO.

I'm going out, baby, try to make some jack.
Hold that thing till I get back. CHO.

Baby, let's give a party, and let's have some fun.
I got the hot-dog, so you just bring the bun. CHO.

Baby I don't want nothing else I see.
What you got really pleases me.
CHO: And...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: ROWDY WOMAN BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:39 PM

ROWDY WOMAN BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I'm gone make a change, baby, because your way won't do. (2x)
You care less and less about me, babe, the more I do for you.

Your ways are so rowdy, you keep me worried all the time. (2x)
I say you can't learn to love me, baby, and there ain't no need of tryin'.

I done something for you, baby, your other good men never done. (2x)
You know I bought you some hair, baby, and they wouldn't buy you none.

When I first met you, baby, you didn't have no hair at all. (2x)
Now I'm gone take my wig 'way from you and let your ratty nappy head go bald.

You're just a rowdy woman, getting worser every day. (2x)
But if you just must be rowdy, baby, why don't you do it in a decent way?

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: KEEP ON DEALIN' (PLAY YOUR HAND)^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:40 PM

KEEP ON DEALIN' (PLAY YOUR HAND)
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red). Tune: Sitting on Top of the World)

When you start to gambling, you must expect to lose,
So don't come running, howling the gambler's blues.
CHO: Just play your hand. Keep on dealing. You'll be lucky on down the line.

Bad luck and trouble run hand in hand.
You women don't have it until you lose your man.
CHO.

Man, if your woman quits you and go away,
Just keep on hoping she'll come back someday.
CHO: And...

Good luck is a fortune trying to come your way.
Don't get discouraged and throw your cards away.
CHO: But...

Don't let your troubles last you too long
If you can't whistle, just sing a song.
CHO: And...

You folks remember, for goodness' sake,
Good things they only come to those who wait.
CHO: And...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: (I COULD LEARN TO LOVE YOU) SO GOOD^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:41 PM

(I COULD LEARN TO LOVE YOU) SO GOOD
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Baby, I could learn to love you so good.
Baby, I could learn, I could learn, baby, to love you so good.
If you may not have an awful lot,
But that little bit you got is awful hot.
Yes, and I could learn to love you so good.

Baby, I could learn, I could learn to love you so good.
Yes, I could learn, baby, I could learn to love you so good.
Why, you got that kind of a swing
That makes me goofy about that thing.
Yes, I could learn, I could learn, baby, to love you so good.

Yes, I could learn to love you so good.
Yes, I could learn, I could learn, baby, to love you so good.
What you doing, what you doing to me,
Baby, will it soon drive me nuts in the first degree.
Yes, and I could learn to love you so good.

Yes, I could learn to love you so good.
Yes, I could learn, I could learn, baby, to love you so good,
'Cause every time you shake the thing 'round,
Makes me feel just like breaking down.
Yes, I could learn, I could learn, baby, to love you so good.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WHEN I TAKE MY VACATION IN HARLEM^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:42 PM

WHEN I TAKE MY VACATION IN HARLEM
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

When I take my vacation in Harlem,
What a hell of a time it will be
With the rhythm of that Harlem hi-de-hi-de
And the gal that I know care for me.
To the jazz of old Duke and old Calloway,
We can love, kiss, and dance till the break of day.
I don't care if it's sleeting, snowing, or raining.
We'll be ready when that Harlem fun begins.
When old Duke sits down to the old piano,
And old Cab shakes his wicked hi-de-ho,
I'll be there with an arm full of heaven,
When I take my vacation in Harlem.

(Repeat.)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: DRINKIN' MY BLUES AWAY^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:43 PM

DRINKIN' MY BLUES AWAY
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I don't drink because I'm dry, mama. I drink because I'm blue.
No matter how I try, babe, I can't get along with you.
CHO: And I just keep on drinking, drinking every night and day.
Well, I just keep on drinking, trying to drive my blues away.

Can't eat for talking. I can't sleep for crying.
You keep me worried, bothered all the time.
CHO.

I can't be happy for being so blue.
No matter how I try, babe, I can't get along with you.
CHO: So I...

Now, if I could hold my own heart in my hand,
I would show all of you people just what I have to stand.
CHO: So I...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: DARK AND STORMY NIGHT^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:44 PM

DARK AND STORMY NIGHT
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

On a cold, dark, and stormy night, (2x)
My baby went and left me just before daylight.

I wonder, did she go to stay? (2x)
I never thought that she would treat me this-a-way.

I'm troubled in my heart and soul. (2x)
She's got a sweet way of loving that makes me lose control.

She is right down on the ground. (2x)
And every time she kiss me, it makes my love come down.

Baby, please come back to me. (2x)
If I've been a bad fellow, I didn't intend to be.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: GOOD WOMAN BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:45 PM

GOOD WOMAN BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

When I had a-plenty money, I had women all over town.
Well, they spent my money, and only one of them can be found.

Oh, gee, I been a-thinking, trying to figure out how can it be?
Out of all my troubles, only one of them stood by me.

I used to say that she were crazy, but now I see she ain't no fool.
She learnt me a lesson I would have never learned going to school.

... I had em all night and got them again today.

Now folks, you may not know. Be careful how you do.
'Cause you may mistreat the very best friend to you.

I used to dog my little woman. Used to mistreat her just for fun,
But she stood right by me in spite of all the wrong I done.

So when we get married, I'll never throw her down.
I will stay right with her till my mustache drags the ground.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. Also recorded by Leroy Carr & Scrapper Blackwell, and Bobby Leecan. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: YOU MISSED A GOOD MAN^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:46 PM

YOU MISSED A GOOD MAN
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I am not much to look at and I don't pretend to be,
But remember what I told you, for someday you're going to see:
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.
I'm low and squatty and built for speed,
And I got everything a real good papa need.
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.

Yes, you missed a good man when you picked all over me.
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.
I'm built like a tadpole, shaped just like a frog.
When I start to loving you, you will holler, "Hot dog!"
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.

You missed a good man when you picked all over me.
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.
I may be old or young in years,
But I can climb your hill without shifting my gears.
You missed a good man when you picked all over me.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. Also recorded by Robert Nighthawk. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WAITING BLUES^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:47 PM

WAITING BLUES
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I been waiting, but the mailman didn't leave no mail. (2x)
So I'm just drifting and worrying like a ship without a sail.

Baby, oh, baby, please come back to me. (2x)
Why, your little daddy is lonesome as any poor man can be.

Why did you leave me, and why are you staying so long?
Why are you leaving, and why did you stay so long?
Don't you realize you are doing your daddy wrong?

I'm not certain, but I think I understand. (2x)
You just cared less about me than you did for your other man.

So you know my number. Call me up some time. (2x)
Well, you could at least write me and ease my worried mind.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1935. Also recorded by Lorraine Walton. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: WHEN YOU WERE A GAL OF SEVEN^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:48 PM

WHEN YOU WERE A GAL OF SEVEN
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

When you and I were kiddies, we had a happy time,
When you was a girl of seven, and I was a boy of nine.
Somehow I can't forget it. It's often on my mind.
When you was a girl of seven, and I was a boy of nine,
We played mama and papa and another game or two.
We disobeyed our mothers and we broke the teacher's rule.
We did things together to please each other's mind,
When you was a girl of seven, and I was a boy of nine.

(Repeat last 4 lines.)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1936. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: LET'S GET DRUNK & TRUCK^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:49 PM

LET'S GET DRUNK & TRUCK
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

Plenty liquor 'round a gang of beer,
A cozy corner and a word of cheer,
No one to bother, so gee, my dear,
Let's get drunk and truck.

I know your other man is out of town.
My other woman she's not around.
Now is the time to break them down.
Let's get drunk and truck.

If we should accidentally get too high to go home,
I've got an extra dollar to rent a parking room.

Plenty kisses and other fun,
And a gallon to wake up on,
So there is nothing to be waiting on.
Let's get drunk and truck.

(Repeat)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1936. This sounds like the ancestor, in concept anyway, of Jimmy Buffet's "Why Don't We Get Drunk (And Screw)," allegedly written by Marvin Gardens, 1973. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: MAYBE IT'S SOMEONE ELSE YOU LOVE^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:50 PM

MAYBE IT'S SOMEONE ELSE YOU LOVE
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

[1.] I can't satisfy you no matter how I try to.
Maybe it's someone else you care for.
You say you would give the world for someone to love and live for.
Maybe it's someone else you care for.

[2.] I tried to pacify you in every way I know,
But when I think you're happy, you're raising hell for mo'.
If I kiss you, you get mad.
If I don't, just too bad.
Maybe it's someone else you care for.

(Repeat 1, 2, 2.)

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1936. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: I WONDER WHAT'S THE MATTER^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:51 PM

I WONDER WHAT'S THE MATTER
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

I'm worried and I'm bothered, troubled in my mind.
And the reason I ain't drinking, mama, there ain't no liquor 'round.
CHO: 'Cause I wonder what's the matter. Yes, I wonder what's the matter.
I wonder what's the matter. You don't treat me good no more.

The days are so lonesome. The nights are so long.
I began to miss the way I used to hold you in my arms.
CHO: Yes, I...

You got me in your clutches, and that I must confess.
I would tell you more, mama, but everybody knows the rest.
CHO: So I...

(Repeat chorus.)

You used to couldn't stand to see me out of sight,
But now you stay away, mama, from your daddy day and night,
CHO: And I...

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1936. JTD]

Subject: Lyr Add: SHE DON'T KNOW MY MIND^^
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 10:52 PM

SHE DON'T KNOW MY MIND
(Hudson Whittaker (Tampa Red))

She don't know. She don't know.
She don't know my mind, gosh-dern her.
CHO: She don't know. She don't know my mind.
When you see me laughing, laughing to keep from crying.

I tried to be good as any man could be,
But her backbiting men have nearly ruined poor me. CHO.

She tried to be a cheater and keep it out of sight,
But messed around and let me catch her dead to the right. CHO.

I wasn't by myself. Everybody there saw it.
She was giving my jelly 'way and not getting nothing for it. CHO.

I'm going to grab a picket off my neighbor's fence,
And beat my woman's head till she learns some sense. CHO.

Now, she can whip it. She can whop it. She can hang it on the wall.
She can throw it out of the window, but I'll catch it 'fore it falls. CHO.

Now, I peeped in the window and this is what I saw:
A man crawling on his knees doing the cootie-cootie crawl. CHO.

Yes, I'm packing up, mama, going back to the woods.
I done found out that you don't mean me no good. CHO.

[As recorded by Tampa Red, 1936. JTD]

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 11:06 PM

There are 2 other Tampa Red songs already in DigiTrad:
NEW STRANGER BLUES and DEPRESSION BLUES
and this one in an old thread: LET ME PLAY WITH YOUR POODLE

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Lepus Rex
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 11:19 PM

Very nice, Jim. That's a lot of work, eh? :)

---Lepus Rex

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Stewie
Date: 18 Dec 01 - 11:21 PM

Great stuff, Jim! Thank you for your efforts.

However, I am puzzled by this statement in your opening post to this thread: 'The set contains all his known extant recordings on the Bluebird label, a low-priced subsidiary of Victor. That is, 42 out of 230 recordings made in his entire career from 1934 to 1953'. There was another 2CD Tampa Red set before the bean counters at RCA put paid to the wonderful Bluebird reissue series: Tampa Red 'The Bluebird Recordings 1936-1938' RCA 07863 66722-2. This has 45 more Tampa Red Bluebirds covering sessions from 3 April 1936 to 14 March 1938. Presumably another set, which never eventuated, was intended to cover his Bluebird releases from sessions from 16 June 1936 to 28 July 1942 - that would have required more than a 2CD set as there were about 70 Bluebird issues in that period. 12 of these have been released on CD on: Tampa Red and Big Maceo 'Guitar and Piano Duets' Indigo Records IGOCD 2115. This latter CD has a further 12 tracks from sessions in 1945 and 1946 - I do not know whether or not they were Bluebirds as Dixon and Godrich don't list post-1943 recordings and there is no label release information in the album notes.

--Stewie.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Giac
Date: 19 Dec 01 - 03:11 AM

Wow! Great, Jim. I've long been a Tampa Red fan, and was especially delighted with his parody When I Take My Vacation In Harlem.

I learned only the chorus to the gospel song, When I Take My Vacation In Heaven, more than 50 years ago, but never knew there were verses. When I saw Tampa Red's words, I searched, and found, several verses to "...Heaven." Will post those in a new thread.

Thanks again - Mary

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Mark Clark
Date: 19 Dec 01 - 11:04 AM

Jim, What a great effort! Not your first, I know, but thanks very much for enriching the DT and all the rest of us in the process. I've always been drawn to Tampa Red's music and now I have no excuse for not learning some of his tunes.

      - Mark

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 19 Dec 01 - 12:33 PM

Stewie: I have re-read the producer's note, and I now see that I misunderstood something. He actually says, "This Tampa Red collection presents all of the artist's known extant Bluebird recordings (as a leader) from March 22, 1934, to April 1, 1936." The notes don't say whether Tampa Red made additional Bluebird recordings outside this period, so I assumed he didn't. I also assumed that the qualification "as a leader" was trivial, so I omitted it.

I see that I made another mistake. I said he made "230 recordings … in his entire career from 1934 to 1953." That should have been "nearly 230 sides in his long association (1934 - 1953) with Bluebird and Victor." Again, I wrongly assumed that he never recorded for any other company – but elsewhere in the notes, it says he began recording in 1928.

Giac: I wasn't aware that WHEN I TAKE MY VACATION IN HARLEM was a parody. Thanks for pointing this out.

Here are some more things I learned: (1) The kazoo was called a "jazz horn." In a photo I saw on another album, it actually had a flared bell like a horn. (2) One of Tampa Red's collaborators was "Georgia Tom," actually Thomas A. Dorsey, who went on to become a writer of hymns, notably PRECIOUS LORD, which became a staple of Billy Graham crusades. Dorsey and PRECIOUS LORD figure prominently in the great documentary film "Say Amen, Somebody." I wasn't aware that Dorsey had a blues background. Dorsey and Tampa Red actually co-wrote SOMEBODY'S BEEN USING THAT THING and IT'S TIGHT LIKE THAT – two of Tampa's more risqué double-entendres. Dorsey doesn't appear on this CD set however.

And thanks for the praise, everybody, but… Some people perform music. I transcribe it. It's no harder, I figure, than learning an instrument, and for me anyway, just as much fun.

Subject: RE: Lyr Add: Tampa Red, Bluebird Recordings 1934-
From: Stewie
Date: 19 Dec 01 - 08:14 PM

Jim, 'Georgia Tom' recorded extensively with Tampa Red for Vocalion (on his own and as part of Tampa Red's Hokum Jug Band) from September 1928 through to February 1932. On one recording in Chicago in 1929 with Frankie Jaxon, the trio (Georgia Tom, Tampa Red and Frankie Jaxon) was recorded as 'The Black Hill Billies'! Another interesting piece of trivia is that Dixon and Godrich note that Tampa Red's real name was Hudson Woodbridge - the commonly believed real name of Hudson Wittaker was assumed.

In respect of photos on album covers, have a look at the instrument depicted on the cover of 'Violin Sing the Blues for Me: African American Fiddlers 1926-49' Old Hat CD-1002. It looks like a kazoo fashioned from a long-necked oil can.

Cheers, Stewie.