This song is a sequel, apparently, to SMOKE! SMOKE! SMOKE! (THAT CIGARETTE), which was written by Merle Travis and Tex Williams, and recorded by Tex Williams. The lyrics have been posted above. The verse is recited in exactly the same rhythm as the earlier song. The chorus, however, is adapted a bit to squeeze more syllables into each line. You can hear this song at http://78records.cdbpdx.com/. (Follow instructions on that page to get to the "main music page.")


WITH MEN WHO KNOW TOBACCO BEST
Written by Lou Busch and Charles Hayes
As recorded by Tex Williams and His Western Caravan, on Capitol 40276, circa 1949-50.

1. Now I heard tell about a guy who smoked
So doggone much he up and croaked,
And now he's restin' six feet underground.
He'd stop a red-hot poker game,
A pettin' party with a beautiful dame,
To light a cigarette to calm him down.
I used to be just like that guy.
I had to have a smoke or die.
For nicotine, I'd even hock my boots.
But then I stopped. I'd had enough.
I vowed I'd taken my last puff.
I found a brand-new brand that really suits.

CHORUS: With men who know tobacco best, it's women two to one.
Ask any man who's made the test which product gets the gun,
And if this fellow's a manly guy,
You can bet your shirt that he'll reply:
"With men who know tobacco best, it's women two to one."

2. Now I was quite a connoisseur.
I knew tobacco, that's for sure.
I tried most ever' kind of nicotine.
I've smoked a pipe, a cigar too,
Some tailor-mades, and rolled a few,
And as a kid I smoked the coffee bean.
But then I met a man one day,
His face was old, his hair was gray,
And upon his frame his clothes so loosely hung.
He listened to me brag awhile
'Bout cigarettes, then with a smile,
He said, "My boy, get wise while you're still young."

3. While sittin' in a bar one night,
I asked a lady for a light.
My cigarette had gone and lost its flame.
She looked at me from head to toe,
Said, "I don't smoke, but goodness knows
I just love to play those parlor games."
I said, "No, thanks, I'd rather smoke."
And then and there I thought she'd choke,
But then she started smilin' with delight.
I moved to leave. She said, "Sit still."
And as she moved in for the kill,
Said, "Son, I've got good news for you tonight."