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Country Blues => Country Blues Lyrics => Topic started by: Bunker Hill on December 10, 2005, 03:18:15 AM

Title: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Bunker Hill on December 10, 2005, 03:18:15 AM
About 20 years ago I had to transcribe No No Blues for another purpose. This was prior to the advent of the CD and is that on the second Story Of The Blues double set. It is the 1928 Columbia version rather than the one the following year for QRS with Eddie Map on harmonica or that with second guitarist recorded in 1933, both of which have two takes. Haven't got time to re-check, please feel free to amend:

Got up this mornin', my good gal was gone.
Got up this mornin', my good gal was gone.
Stood by my bedside, hung my head and, hung my head and moaned.

Went down the street, I couldn't be satisfied.
Went down the street, I couldn't be satisfied.
Had the no no blues, just too mean to, just too mean to cry.

Take a mighty crooked woman, treat a good man wrong.
Take a mighty crooked woman, treat a good man wrong.
Take a mighty crooked woman, treat a good man, treat a good man wrong.

Ain't none o' my business, but it sure ain't right.
Ain't none o' my business, but it sure ain't right.
Take another man's woman, walk the streets all, walk the streets all night. .

If I mistreat you, I sure don't mean no harm.
If I mistreat you, I sure don't mean no harm.
I'm a motherless child, don't know right from, don't know right from wrong.

I'm a stranger here and just come in your town.
I'm a stranger here, I just come in your town.
 If I ask for a favour, don't turn me, don't turn me down.

I'm long and tall like a Cannonball.
I'm long and tall like a Cannonball.
Take a long tall fellow make a good gal, make a good gal squall.

I ain't no gambler, I don't play no pool.
I ain't no gambler, I don't play no pool.
I'm just a roller, jellybakin', jellybakin' fool.

I'm a stranger here, just come on this train.
I'm a stranger here, I just come on this train.
I long to hear some gal call my, gal call my name.

My mama's told me, papa told me too.
My mama's told me, papa told me too.
Don't let no woman make a fool outa, make a fool outa you.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: paulreso1 on April 24, 2009, 03:54:56 AM
Hi folks

I am new to the Weenie Campbell forum.  I'd like some help with the lyrics to Curly Weaver's Hard times. (BTW I think Little Brother does a nice version on youtube)....does anyone have the lyric?

thanks for your help

Paul
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Slack on April 24, 2009, 07:09:52 AM
Hi Paul, welcome to WeenieCampbell.  What do you have so far?
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: paulreso1 on April 24, 2009, 10:28:09 AM
Hi here's what I have so far

Hard times hard times,
?bout to drive me wild
?????????
?????????
I keep on drinkin? tryin to drive my blues away
And the sun?s going to shine, In my back door someday

Say I wouldn?t keep on drinkin
If I could help my ?????self
I wouldn?t be lovin? you if I could love someone else
I keep on drinkin? tryin to drive my blues away
Said  the sun?s going to shine In my back door someday

(Play that thing boy)

Say I ain?t going to tell nobody I ain?t going to drink no more
I don?t feel welcome no place I go
I keep on drinkin? tryin to drive my blues away
Said  the sun?s going to shine In my back door someday

Said I may be crazy, but I ain?t nobody?s fool
Why take a dog and ??? like a????????Georgia mule
I keep on drinkin? tryin to drive my blues away
Said  the sun?s going to shine In my back door someday
Title: Curley Weaver's "Ticket Agent"
Post by: Johnm on May 09, 2010, 12:49:30 PM
Hi all,
I've loved Curley Weaver's recording of "Ticket Agent" since I first heard it, about forty-five years ago on the great old anthology, "Country Blues Classics, Vol. 1" on Chris Strachwitz's Blues Classics label.  The song can currently be found on the JSP "Atlanta Blues" set. "Ticket Agent", played out of A position in standard tuning, is one of the great set piece eight-bar performances, and Curley Weaver's time and the lift he was able to get on his brushed, damped upbeats has never been bettered, to my ear. 
Lyrically, the song works much of the same territory as Buddy Moss' "New Lovin' Blues" and Willie McTell's "Searchin' The Desert For The Blues", though it also grabs some lines from Sylvester Weaver's "Can't Be Trusted Blues."  Like them all, it's a great bragging song.  This one rivals Peg Leg Howell's "Coal Man Blues" for number of verses--seventeen (!) here.  The bent bracketed lines I'm not sure of, and I'd appreciate corroboration/correction.  Here is "Ticket Agent":

https://youtu.be/ce7VT50pkfs

   "Good Lord, good Lord, send me a angel down"
   "Can't spare you no angel, but I'll spare you a teasing brown."

   "Ticket agent, ticket agent, how long that train been gone?
   Ticket agent, tell me the road she's on."

   I went to the station with my guitar in my hand
   Crowd of women run to me, said, "Mr. Weaver, won't you be my man?"

   There's a crowd on the corner, d'you reckon, who could it be?
   Wasn't nothin' but a crowd of women tryin' to get to me

   This new way of lovin', Great God, it must be best
   'Cause Atlanta women just won't let poor Curley Weaver rest

   My baby, she got a mojo, tryin' to keep it hid
   Papa Weaver got somethin' to find that doggone mojo with

   My Mama, she told me, I's a boy playin' mumble-peg
   "Don't drink no black cow's milk, don't eat no black hen's egg."

   Let me tell you, good buddy, double-crossin' women will do
   They will have your buddy, come on play all sick on you

   I don't believe no woman in the whole round world do right
   Act like a angel in the daytime, but they's hell at night

   I used to, to thought, married woman's the sweetest woman was born
   I changed that thing, you'd better leave married womens alone

   Now listen, good buddy, huh, let all married women be
   'Cause their husband'll grab you, beat you ragged as a cedar tree

   I will back-bite you and gnaw you to the bone
   Got ways like my Daddy and I can't leave womens alone

   You may trust me, buddy, but I won't trust you
   Get a chance wit' your woman, gnaw your backbone half in two

   A hen at my home, she laid thirteen eggs a day
   Old rooster got jealous and the doggone fool walked away

   It makes no difference, baby, 'bout you change your lock and key
   'Cause too many women want a hotshot like me

   My Mama, she told me, I's just a boy 'bout nine years old
   Says, "Son, you're gonna be some woman's sweet jellyroll."

   A woman, she'll swear, loves you 'bout all her life
   Meet that man 'round the corner, tell that doggone same lie twice.

Edited, 5/9, to pick up corrections from uncle bud.

All best,
Johnm


Title: Re: Curley Weaver's "Ticket Agent"
Post by: uncle bud on May 09, 2010, 06:20:31 PM
Hi John - thanks for the reminder of this one. I haven't listened to it very often. A couple suggestions:

My baby, she got a mojo, tryin' to keep it hid
Papa Weaver got somethin' to find that mojo with

Papa Weaver got somethin' to find that DOGGONE mojo with  (you were just missing a word)

Quote
Let me tell you, good buddy, double-cross women will do
They will have your buddy, come on play all sick on you

I think he swallows the '-in' in double-crossin'

Quote
You may trust me, buddy, but I won't trust you
[You trust] a woman, gnaw your backbone half in two

GET A CHANCE WIT' YOUR woman, gnaw your backbone half in two

Curley runs this together really fast, more like " get chance 't' yo' woman", but that's what I think he sings. Cf. Willie McTell's Talkin' to Myself: "'Cause if you  allow me a chance, I'll gnaw your backbone half in two"

Quote
It makes no difference, baby, 'bout you [chain your lovin'] key
'Cause too many women want a hotshot like me

It makes no difference, baby, 'bout you CHANGE YOUR LOCK AND key

Again, compare to McTell in "Cold Winter Day":

Make no difference mama, change your lock and key
Too many women want a man like me
Still you'll need me some old cold winter day

Title: Re: Curley Weaver's "Ticket Agent"
Post by: Johnm on May 09, 2010, 07:14:01 PM
Thanks so much, uncle bud!  I had that "doggone", and neglected to type it in.  These suggestions are all spot on and really do it up nicely.  I'll make the changes.
All best,
Johnm
Title: Curley Weaver lyrics; Who stole de lock?
Post by: jelly roll on March 06, 2012, 03:19:14 PM
Anyone know the actual lyrics which Curley sings on this song? All i can find on the net so far is who broke the lock which is a very old folk song from the 19th century. I think he changed them.
Dont suppose it matters much but it's nagging me.
Any ideas??
jelly roll
Title: Re: Curley Weaver lyrics; Who stole de lock?
Post by: Rivers on March 06, 2012, 05:20:17 PM
Usually we ask the original poster to have a stab themselves and post a starter version. You'll find that will tend to get folks listening and chiming in. Put '??' or some such in the places you can't get. Guidelines here: http://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=6575.0 (http://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=6575.0)
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on March 09, 2012, 06:50:21 AM
Hi all,
It's been a while since this request for lyrics help was posted, but I think I have some of the missing lines.  For ease of formatting, I'll re-enter the whole song, with the suggested lines added in CAPs.  It sure sounds like Curley Weaver is using "fuc*in'" as an adjective, pronounced "fuhggin'".  I've heard this done somewhere else and can't recall where.  Maybe some of you will remember other songs that use it.  I'd appreciate help with any remaining bent bracketed passages.  Curley Weaver is definitely playing out of G position in standard tuning on this one, and I have a hard time hearing McTell's playing position.  This performance can be found on the JSP set, "Atlanta Blues".  Here is "I Keep On Drinking":

https://youtu.be/Ux70obLZ5Xg

   Hard time, hard time, 'bout to drive me wild
   TAKE A BIG FAT WOMAN, WORKIN' DOWN TO MY BOOGIEIN' SIDE
   REFRAIN: I keep on a-drinkin', try to drive my blues away
   Say, the sun's going to shine in my backdoor someday

   Says, I wouldn't keep on a-drinkin', if I could help my BOOKIN' self
   Wouldn't be lovin' you if I could love someone else
   REFRAIN: I keep on drinkin', try to drive my blues away
   Say, the sun's going to shine in my backdoor someday (Spoken: Play that thing, boy!)

   SOLO

   Says, I ain't gonna tell nobody, I ain't gonna drink no more
   I don't feel welcome no place I go
   REFRAIN: I keep on drinkin', try to drive my blues away
   Say, the sun's going to shine in my backdoor someday

   SAYS, I may be crazy, but I ain't nobody's fool
   'FORE I'LL TAKE YOUR DOGGIN', I KICK LIKE A BUCKIN' GEORGI' MULE
   REFRAIN: I keep on drinkin', try to drive my blues away
   Say, the sun's going to shine in my backdoor someday

Edited 3/9 to pick up corrections from banjochris
Edited 3/9 to pick up corrections from uncle bud and Johnm

All best,
Johnm   

     
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on March 09, 2012, 07:20:40 AM
Hi all,
I realized there were a number of separate threads on Curley Weaver lyrics and decided to do a merged thread.  The last post prior to this one is in response to a request for lyrics help with Curley's version of "I Keep On Drinkin'", about four posts back.
All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on March 09, 2012, 10:20:57 AM
It sure sounds like Curley Weaver is using "fuc*in'" as an adjective, pronounced "fuhggin'".

I'm pretty sure he's saying boogie-in' each time.
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on March 09, 2012, 11:05:53 AM
Thanks for the correction, Chris.  Can you hear that missing place in the second line of the first verse?
All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: uncle bud on March 09, 2012, 01:04:39 PM
I hear "Take a BIG FAT woman..."

Cora Mae Bryant, Curley's daughter, also sang "Take a big fat man..." in her version of the song.  Her singing of the rest of the line sounds the same as Curley, but both are not exactly comprehensible to me. I do hear a B sound though. The only thing other than BOOGIE-IN'  that occurred to me as a possibility was BUCKIN', pronounced more like BOOKIN'. The Georgia mule in the last verse would make sense if it was buckin' perhaps. That line from the last verse sounds like it is:

4.2 'FORE I'll take your DOGGIN' I'LL kick like a boogie-in/BUCKIN' Georgia mule
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on March 09, 2012, 02:49:18 PM
Your suggestions seem right on, uncle bud, both in terms of their sound and in terms of making more sense out of the lyrics.  Thanks very much for the help, and I'll make the changes.  On another issue, it's weird the way McTell starts his solo on a III chord, isn't it?  What's up with that?
All best,
Johnm
Title: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: bayrum78 on December 05, 2012, 03:21:47 PM
I've been listening to Curley Weaver songs lately and his Dirty Deal Blues is a good one. If I am not mistaken it is played in standard tuning Key of G capoed at the 1st fret.  I would like some help with the lyrics. My source is Docd-5110 Georgia Blues and the track under discussion is pretty scratchy. Perhaps others have a different source with better audio quality and can hear the lyrics better.  Here is "Dirty Deal Blues" and this is what I am hearing:

https://youtu.be/2PsT3wARsik

When you are tired mama lay down on your bed (repeat)
I brought you your medicine I also brought your bread

Now you laugh today, sure can't do it again
Now you laugh today, sure can't do it again
I brought you your medicine, you won't even let me in

I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
Don't matter what time I go there, he never put out all his light

I'm going to hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
I'm going to hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
I go home up the country, I want to know what I'm doing round here

Hey hey hey hey hey, hey hey hey hey hey   (repeat)
These women in Atlanta they treat me like a dog

I run to the telephone, pressed the receiver down
I run to the telephone, pressed the receiver down
I said, "Hello Central, give me Dr. Brown"

Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: dj on December 06, 2012, 02:48:54 AM
The last verse is:

I HAVE TO telephone, have to get her fever down
I HAVE TO telephone, have to get her fever down
I said "Hello Central, give me Dr. Brown"

There are some spots in earlier verses I think aren't quite right, but I'd have to listen some more before making suggestions.
Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: uncle bud on December 06, 2012, 07:58:03 AM
That's a cool tune. I haven't noticed it before, probably because it went by in a fog of surface noise. Some things I still need to listen to some more but here are a few corrections and suggestions. The more uncertain bits are in square brackets:

Verse 2 is very tricky. I am not sure about lines 2.1 and 2.2

[NOW YOU LAUGH] today, [SURE] CAN'T do it again
[NOW YOU LAUGH] today, [JUST] CAN'T do it again
I brought you your medicine, YOU won't even let me IN

I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
DON'T MATTER WHAT TIME I go there, he never PUT out all HIS light

(This verse occurs in Blind Lemon's Mean Jumper Blues: "I go there early in the morning, and I goes there late at night/Don't care how late I goes there, he has never turned out his light")

I'm going to hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
I'm going to hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
[I GO] home up the country, I want to know what I'm doing ROUND here

The I GO above is probably more like Curley swallowing I'M GOIN'.

The last verse appears in Blind Lemon's Gone Dead On You Blues (slightly different, Lemon's sings "pulled the receiver down". Which as someone pointed out here at some point, I believe, is how those old telephones worked):

I RUN TO THE telephone, PRESSED THE RECEIVER down
I RUN TO THE telephone, PRESSED THE RECEIVER down
I said, "Hello Central, give me Dr. Brown"

edit: could possibly be "TOUCHED the receiver down". Not sure.

Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: dj on December 06, 2012, 10:27:51 AM
Wow, uncle bud, I think you've nailed it.  Good ears!

Man, those QRS pressings are worse than Paramounts.
Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: uncle bud on December 06, 2012, 12:58:33 PM
Thanks, dj, although the key was recognizing Lemon's verses then deciphering how they differ in Weaver's tune. I agree, that pressing sounds like it has extra furniture in it.

Nate, regarding the playing of this tune, I would say it is in Spanish tuning, pitched as you say in the neighbourhood of G sharp or so. A couple things point me to this, the foremost being that the accompaniment is similar to a style of accompaniment used by Barbecue Bob and Charley Lincoln that was in Spanish. This includes in particular the end tag riff in the bass. You can also hear he goes to a low V note in that riff, not available in G standard. Another clue is the open 5th string for the bass in the IV chord, which would then be completed by barring the remaining strings at the 5th fret. Not a clincher, but the chord is quite ringy and seems to point to this position, IMO, rather than a C chord position with G bass in standard tuning. But that bass riff is the real tip off for me, just because I have used it playing other tunes.

Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: bayrum78 on December 06, 2012, 06:50:21 PM
Thanks guys! UB, in particular thanks for your in depth lyrical and tuning analysis. When I first started listening to the lyrics, I couldn't recognize anything he was singing except for a couple of words and thought there's no way these lyrics can be deciphered, but I kept listening literally dozens of times and I gradually heard more and more. It's funny how obvious parts sounded afterwards.
About the tuning -   I had rather hastily asumed standard G basing it largely on the I7 chord.
 For that descending bass walk in standard  used the 1st string G note as a pedal point, left stings 2 and 3 open then walked down the  4th string which maiantained a pretty open sound. When I have the opportunity, I'll rework it in Spanish. 

I'm really pleased this song has now been given the all around attention it deserves. Considering I couldn't find any reference to it relating to Curley Weaver on the internet or on weenie, this one may have been mouldering unplayed and undiscussed since Curley passed away. It's an exciting prospect (to me at least), that it's once again ready for prime time. I'll post my rendition on the backporch when I get a chance. It might be fun if others did as well. Any takers?
Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: uncle bud on December 07, 2012, 04:38:31 AM
I'm really pleased this song has now been given the all around attention it deserves. Considering I couldn't find any reference to it relating to Curley Weaver on the internet or on weenie, this one may have been mouldering unplayed and undiscussed since Curley passed away. It's an exciting prospect (to me at least), that it's once again ready for prime time. I'll post my rendition on the backporch when I get a chance. It might be fun if others did as well. Any takers?

It's quite possible you're right that the song has been mouldering pretty much unnoticed and unplayed, Nate. And I agree, it's exciting when one of these completely obscure but cool songs gets some new life breathed into it. It's one of the real pleasures of the weenie site for me, honestly.
Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: uncle bud on December 07, 2012, 08:25:41 AM
BTW, I found the version from the Atlanta Blues JSP set to be slightly better in terms of noise, likely just the Document with better EQ but it may help folks decipher things a bit more. Attached.

[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re: Dirty Deal Blues - Curley Weaver
Post by: bayrum78 on December 10, 2012, 08:21:39 AM
I have corrected the lyrics.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on December 24, 2012, 09:32:50 PM
Hi all,
I merged Nate's thread on Curley Weaver's version of "Dirty Deal Blues" with the pre-existing Curley Weaver Lyrics thread.
All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: L.C. Van Howl on July 08, 2013, 08:41:01 PM
Hello!

Im looking for a little help with the lyrics to this, "WHO STOLE THE LOCK"

CURLEY WEAVER - Who Stole de Lock (1934) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkZSAqh5wEQ#)
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: L.C. Van Howl on July 08, 2013, 08:44:18 PM
WHO STOLE DE LOCK, I DONT KNOW
WHO STOLE DE LOCK ON THE HEN HOUSE DOOR?
I'LL FIND OUT BEFORE I GO
WHO STOLE DE LOCK ON DE HENHOUSE DOOR

PEOPLE IN TOWN (? ? ?)

ILL FIND OUT BEFORE I GO
WHO STOLE DE LOCK ON DE HEN HOUSE DOOR

HAD A LITTLE GAL, SWEET AS A PLUM (?)
HIT ON THE HEAD, HALF PAST DUMB (?)
I'LL FIND OUT BEFORE I GO
WHO STOLE DE LOCK ON DE HENHOUSE DOOR

. . .

it goes on and on... I'd like to know what another set of ears hear throughout it. It's a damn fine tune.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: cru423 on July 09, 2013, 12:33:06 AM
Who Stole de Lock? 

Who stole the lock, I don't know
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door
I'll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

People in town scared again
People in the country picking cotton again
I found out before I went
Who stole my rooster who stole my hen

Had a little girl, sweet as a plum
Found an egg about as long as my thumb
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

Don?t come in here with your nose all snotty
Know any chicken stealers, better ask somebody
Judged him right before his face
Gave him ninety-nine years and two extra days

Old Uncle Moe is sick in bed
Doctor said he's almost dead
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

Woke up this morning about half past six
Now turn over mama let?s get it fixed
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen house door

Old Aunt Dinah's long and tall
Shakes it like some winding ball
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

Had a little dog his name was Bill
Won?t bite my brother Will
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

Old Aunt Dinah?s sick in bed
Doctor said she's almost dead
I?ll find out before I go
Who stole the lock on the hen-house door

Title: Curley Weaver My Baby Gone Lyrics
Post by: harriet on March 06, 2015, 04:41:24 PM
Hope these are correct...  Here is "My Baby's Gone":

https://youtu.be/WLIkaiRnXv8

My Baby's Gone

My baby?s gone and I 'll  soon be gone myself
My baby?s gone and I 'll  soon be gone myself
That the reason why I ain't got nobody else   

If the good gal quit you and you ain't done nothin wrong
If the good gal quit you and you ain't done nothin wrong
Don't take it so hard cause your life won't last you long

I'm gonna act like a rambler ain't gonna never stay at home
Act like a rambler ain't gonna never stay at home
I'm gonna catch me a freight train I'm going back to Baltimore

My baby gone and I'm almost in my grave
My baby gone and I'm almost in my grave
Gonna leave Georgia cause I'm tired being you women's slave

mmmmmmmm
mmmmmmmmm
mmmmmm (melody hummed for verse)



Title: Re: Curley Weaver My Baby Gone Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on March 06, 2015, 07:18:12 PM
You've got it -- I would suggest "your life" in 2.3 and "I'm gon' catch" (he really swallows the G) in 3.3, but other than that looks good to me!
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver My Baby Gone Lyrics
Post by: harriet on March 07, 2015, 02:47:05 AM
Thanks for your help banjochris - I upgraded the lyrics.
Harriet
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on March 12, 2015, 06:57:12 AM
Hi all,
I merged Harriet's recent transcription of "My Baby's Gone" into the Curley Weaver Lyrics thread.
All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: harriet on March 12, 2015, 02:44:49 PM
Thank you
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on February 18, 2021, 04:01:26 PM
Hi all,
"Trixie", recorded in 1950, is Curley Weaver's version of the old hit, "Tricks Ain't Walkin' No More", of course, and like his erstwhile playing partner, Buddy Moss, Curley played it out of G position in standard tuning. I'd very much appreciate help with the missing place in the final verse. Here is "Trixie":

https://youtu.be/kUAcGVRNkxs

Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin' no more
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, stay away from my door
I got a gal, she's little and low, she used to let me shake it but she don't no more, now
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin' no more
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, stay away from my door
I got a gal, she's long and tall, sleeps in the kitchen with her head in the hall, now
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin' no more
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, stay away from my door
Two fat women, layin' in the shade, they're waitin' on the money their monkeymen made
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin' no more
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, stay away from my door
Some of these women, they sure look tough, every time I see 'em they got a mouthful of snuff
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin' no more
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, stay away from my door
Ever since ham been a dollar a pound, I been eatin' so many rabbits 'til I'm hoppin' around
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

SOLO BEGINS VERSE
Soup house runnin' every day, tryin' to drive depression away, now
Tricks ain't walkin' no more, tricks ain't walkin'  no more, I mean, tricks ain't walkin' no more

Edited 2/18 to pick up correction from banjochris

All best,
Johnm
 
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on February 18, 2021, 04:58:28 PM
It sounds like "suit how of runnin". Could it be "soo cows runnin".
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on February 18, 2021, 05:21:34 PM
That's a tough one, isn't it, Harry? To me, it sounds like
   Soup Hal runnin', every day
which makes no sense at all. I'm stuck currently, and not hearing anything that makes any sense.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on February 18, 2021, 05:21:54 PM
It's "soup house runnin'" – I listened to Curley's 1934 recording in which he sings it the exact same unintelligible way and then Buddy Moss' record, and he sings "They run a soup house everyday..." – so it's a reference to soup kitchens.
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on February 18, 2021, 05:31:21 PM
Thanks so much, Chris, it's nice to get it right. I was closer than I thought!
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 20, 2022, 10:29:07 AM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver recorded "Dirty Deal Blues" at a session in Long Island City in May of 1929, accompanying himself out of Spanish tuning with a slide and using an approach that was also used by Barbecue Bob on many of his recordings. This record is really whupped, and I would very much appreciate help with anything I'm missing or have gotten wrong. Here is Curley Weaver's "Dirty Deal Blues":

https://youtu.be/2PsT3wARsik

INTRO

When you was down, mama, sick down on your bed
When you was down, mama, sick down on your bed
I brought you your medicine, also brought you [          ]

Now you's up today, looking good again
Now you's up today, looking good again
I brought you your medicine, won't even let me in

I go down the early morning, I goes there late at night
I go down the early morning, I go there late at night
No matter what time I go there, he never cut out all his lights

I'm gonna hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
I'm gonna hire me a taxi, gonna ride away from here
My home up the country, I want to know what I'm doin' 'round here

Hey, hey-hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey
Hey-ey, hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey
Every man in Atlanta, keeps treatin' me like his dog

I run to the telephone, put the receiver down
I took the phone, put the receiver down
I said, "Hello Central, give me Dr. Brown."

CODA

All best,
Johnm

Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on September 20, 2022, 03:18:13 PM
A couple suggestions, John:

I'm not quite sure about 1.3, but it could be "BROUGHT YOUR PAY"

3.1 and 3.2 should be
I go THERE EARLY IN THE MORNING

6.1 and 6.2 should be
TOOK the receiver down

How many different Blind Lemon tunes are the lyrics from? :)
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on September 20, 2022, 03:27:42 PM
Hi John and Chris,

This song was done in Miller's Breakdown 
https://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=10188.msg110329#msg110329 (https://weeniecampbell.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=10188.msg110329#msg110329)


When you were down, mama, sick down on your bed
When you were down, mama, sick down on your bed
I brought you your medicine, also brought you bread

Then you's out today, looking good again
Then you's out today, looking good again
I brought you your medicine, you won't even let me in

I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
I go there early in the morning, I go there late at night
No matter what time I go there, he never cut out all his lights

I'm gonna hire me a taxi, gon' ride away from here
I'm gonna hire me a taxi, gon' ride away from here
My home up the country, mama, I wanna know what I'm doin' 'round here

Hey, hey-hey, hey-hey, hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey
Hey, hey-hey, hey-hey, hey-hey-hey-hey, hey-hey
Every man in Atlanta, he treats me like his dog

I ran to the telephone, took the receiver down
I went to the telephone, took the receiver down
I said, "Hello Central, give me Dr. Brown."
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 20, 2022, 03:40:43 PM
That's weird--it was also done earlier in this thread, as I discovered.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Slack on September 20, 2022, 04:23:51 PM
Uh-oh, it's like buying a much needed large mixing bowl, only to discover two months later you have two exact large mixing bowls on top of the refrigerator.    :P
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on September 20, 2022, 07:27:03 PM
That pretty much goes along with the rest of my day! Oh well, and yeah bread makes the most sense there for sure – he really trails off.
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 21, 2022, 10:31:32 AM
Oof, you're right, Slack. I should check Weeniepedia before doing what I think is a new transcription, and looking earlier in the same thread wouldn't hurt either.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Slack on September 21, 2022, 10:42:50 AM
Well, our memories are not getting any better, you just have to laugh.  The mixing bowl analogy came from a good friend - who delighted in showing me the three exact mixing bowls he had bought.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Stuart on September 21, 2022, 03:19:45 PM
Well, at least it didn't cost you anything John. I don't know if it's simply a function of aging--forgetting more easily--or possibly simply how much info our memory cells can hold before the ever increasing stock becomes difficult to maintain control of. The songs and the transcriptions of their lyrics are cumulative, after all.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 21, 2022, 05:57:45 PM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver recorded "Ta Ta Blues" at the same session as he recorded "Dirty Deal Blues" and like that song, it was played out of Spanish tuning. Curley Weaver's playing on this song gives some idea of why he was held in such high esteem among his fellow Georgia guitarists, for he sounds wonderful throughout, and his solo is really so strongly played. Like "Dirty Deal Blues", the only recording I could find of it is similarly whupped, so I'd appreciate any filling in of blanks or corrections of mistakes that are in my transcription. I wonder who first sang the last verse; it has a pretty wide currency, and I've always liked it. Here is "Ta Ta Blues":

https://youtu.be/G8ytuJsoAxQ

I taken my woman upstairs, and pulled down the blind
I taken my woman upstairs, and pulled down the blind
When she come down, she done changed her mind

Tat-ta tat-ta tat-ta, tat-tat-tat-tat-tat tat-ta-ta-ta
Tat-ta tat-ta tat-ta tat-ta, tat-ta-tat-ta tat-ta-ta-ta
Tat-ta tat-ta tat-ta tat-ta-ta, tat-tat-ta, tat-ta-ta-ta

I got a big yalla woman, keep me warm as I sleep
I've got a big yalla woman, keeps me warm as I sleep
I just buyed a gallon of whiskey, every night as my fee

SOLO

A weak-minded woman, will let a rounder tear her down
A weak-minded woman, let a rounder tear her down
When she get in trouble, that rounder can't be found

Baby, you will never, see my smiling face again
Baby, you will never, see my smiling face again
You already remember, your daddy have been your friend

CODA

Edited 9/22 to pick up corrections from Old Man Ned, Blues Vintage and banjochris

All best,
Johnm

   
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Old Man Ned on September 22, 2022, 03:27:46 AM
Hi John,

In last line of the 3rd verse I'm not hearing 'her'. I'm just hearing 'I just buyed a gallon of whiskey, every night at my feet'

In the last line of the last verse I'm hearing 'You already remember' and not 'always'. 'Always' seems to make more sense but it sounds like 'already' to me.

All the Best
Ned
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on September 22, 2022, 07:32:18 AM
I agree with Old Man Ned

I don't hear the "I" in verse 1

I taken my woman upstairs, and I pulled down the blind
I taken my woman upstairs, and I pulled down the blind


I got a big yalla woman, keep me warm as I please sleep
I've got a big yalla woman, keeps me warm as I please sleep
I just buy ed her a gallon of whiskey, every night at my feet      Possibly as my fee


4.2 A weak-minded woman, will let a rounder sell her 'round

I thought it was "settle down" on first hearing but I'm leaning towards "sell her 'round" now


You always already remember, your daddy have been your friend
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on September 22, 2022, 09:00:26 AM
I wonder who first sang the last verse; it has a pretty wide currency, and I've always liked it.

I always thought Leroy Carr.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on September 22, 2022, 09:30:35 AM
I went and listened to Willie Baker's "Weak-Minded Blues" and he sings (on a much-less-whupped 78) this line:
A weak-minded woman, will let a rounder sell her 'round

as A weak-minded woman, will let a rounder TEAR HER DOWN

Going back and listening to Curley, I'm pretty sure that's what he sings as well.
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 22, 2022, 09:31:10 AM
Thanks very much, Old Man Ned and Blues Vintage, for the suggestions. I agree with all of them and have made the changes.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 22, 2022, 09:33:20 AM
I just saw your suggestion, Chris, and re-listened, and I think you're right. I'll make that change as well. Thanks.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 23, 2022, 04:15:17 PM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver recorded "Leg Iron Blues" at a session in New York City on January 18, 1933 for which DG&R shows him as being backed by either Fred McMullen or Buddy Moss. Of the two possible accompanying guitarists, I lean toward Buddy Moss, because it sounds like Curley Weaver is playing to his specialty in duet settings, keeping up a running commentary of bass runs in E position in standard tuning while the lead guitarist plays slide in Vestapol, which Buddy played in some of his early duet recordings with Curley, while Fred McMullen really favored playing slide in Spanish tuning. Whoever the lead guitarist was, the duo gets an amazingly full sound; it's really hard to believe that only two guitar are making all of that sound. The lyrics here work a lot of the same territory as "DeKalb Chain Gang", which Curley and Fred McMullen recorded under Fred's name. Here is "Leg Iron Blues", and as usual I welcome corrections or corroboration.

https://youtu.be/f-9Zb8Ea3i8

INTRO SOLO

Six months ain't no sentence, twelve months ain't no great long time
Six months ain't no sentence, twelve months ain't no great long time
I be in the chain gang, but I did not make ninety-nine

Take these stripes off my shoulder, babe, chains from around my leg
Take these stripes from my shoulder, chains from around my leg
These stripes don't hurt me, but the chains 'bout to kill me dead

SOLO

Baby, you wouldn't've come to see me, honey, when I had so long
You wouldn't've come to see me, baby, when I had so long
Now I'm a free man again, honey, and right back home

When I met you, baby, your old skirts was full of holes
When I met you, baby, your old skirts was full of holes
Now you done got lucky, can't touch you with a ten-foot pole

CODA

Edited 9/24 to pick up correction from Blues Vintage

All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Old Man Ned on September 24, 2022, 02:29:32 PM
Hi John,

I'm not sure about the first two lines of the last verse. It doesn't sound like 'your old socks was full of holes' to me but it's not clear. could it be 'old stuff was full of holes'?

All the Best,
Ned
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 24, 2022, 02:32:33 PM
Hi Ned,
I think it is "socks", but pronounced more like "sucks".
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on September 24, 2022, 05:54:20 PM
I think it's skirt. More clear on the second line.

Now And you done got lucky, can't touch you with a ten-foot pole
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 24, 2022, 06:51:24 PM
Hi Blues Vintage,
Thanks for the help. It is "skirts" both times, in the plural. I will make the change. "Now" at the front end of the last line is correct, i think.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 30, 2022, 02:26:09 PM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver recorded "Sometime Mama" at a session in Chicago on April 23, 1935, that was devoted primarily to duets with Blind Willie McTell, with this being the only solo number featuring Curley. I had never heard this cut before and found it by looking in DG&R for solo cuts by Curley. I was surprised upon hearing Curley's playing here in E position, standard tuning, the extent to which he was working Buddy Moss's side of the street, instrumentally. I hadn't previously encountered any other numbers by Curley where he sounds like this. Even his vocal sounds like Buddy. Obviously, they knew each other, for they recorded a good number of titles together, but I had never heard a contemporary of Buddy's in the mid-30s play in the sound that I had thought was his alone. I suppose it's a reminder that many players were able to do things that they may never have had the opportunity to record. Here is "Sometime Mama", and as always, I'd very much appreciate help with the lyrics if I miss a line or have something wrong:

https://youtu.be/RVgCaMAneEI

INTRO SOLO

Sometime, mama, you as good as good can be
Sometime, mama, you as good as good can be
You done change your mind, baby, tryin' to make a dog of me

When I met you, baby, you didn't have no sometime way
When I met you, baby, you didn't have no sometime way
Now you done changed, baby, tryin' to carry me to my grave

SOLO

Well I'll follow you, baby, if things seem to be all right
Well I'll follow you, baby, if things seem to be all right
You done got to a place now, baby, won't even love me at night

Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm-mmm-mmm
Mmm-mmm, mmm-mmm-mmm-mmm
Mmm-mmm-mmm, mmm-hmm-mmm

Now listen, baby, what I'm going to say
Now listen, baby, what I'm going to say
You gonna have to get you another man, if you don't stop your sometime way

CODA

Edited 9/30 to pick up correction from banjochris

All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on September 30, 2022, 02:54:03 PM
Looks good to me, John, except for the obvious little typo in 3.2 – and he really does sound like Moss here, except obviously a little less sure of himself behind his singing, particularly in those licks going from the I to V and back again.

Makes me think that perhaps on "Leg Iron" that it's Curley playing the lead in Vestapol and Buddy playing the backup in E. The slide part in that tune has the "it's the vocalist playing and following his vocal" feel to it to me – I think it'd be quite a bit more difficult to play that meandering bass line while you were singing. Of course there's probably no way to be sure!
Chris
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on September 30, 2022, 03:35:20 PM
Thanks for catching the typo, Chris, I've made the fix. You're right--Curley's playing here lacks the sparkling finish of Buddy's playing on similar numbers, though it's still great playing.

Re "Leg Iron", I've always considered that non-stop bass run commentary on Georgia duets to be Curley's sole province, but after hearing Curley play lead in what I had considered Buddy's sole province I'm having to re-think the whole issue of versatility, both in solo and duet playing. Usually the roles in duets are pretty consistently defined, but there's no real reason both players couldn't conceivably play either part. As you say, there's no way to know for sure, for "Leg Iron".
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: banjochris on October 01, 2022, 04:15:57 PM
There are quite a few duets with McTell where Weaver plays some very nice melodic slide. I’m trying to think of titles and “Lonesome Day” is the only one coming immediately to mind but I know there are quite a few others.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on October 03, 2022, 07:54:13 AM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver was once again joined by Buddy Moss for "Empty Room Blues", which the duo recorded for ARC at a session in New York City on September 19, 1933. Curley plays slide here, in Vestapol, with Buddy playing a spectacular seconding part in dropped-D tuning. In some ways, Buddy's part seems like a sketch for his own "New Loving Blues", recorded a year later. The performance was originally unissued, but Document put it out later. What a terrific piece! This one would be hugely fun to work out and play with a friend. I'm missing lyrics in a couple of places and would very much appreciate help. Here is "Empty Room Blues":

https://youtu.be/mrhAvj35RSw

INTRO SOLO

Don't your room feel lonesome, gal pack up and leave?
Don't your room feel lonesome, when your gal pack up and leave?
You may drink your moonshine, but your heartache grieve

Mmmmmm, mmmm-mmm
I done drink so much whiskey, staggers in my sleep
That gal in Chicago, sure, Lord, worry me (Spoken: Play it low and lonesome, boy, 'cause I'm worried!)

SOLO

I got a new way lovin', green men can't catch on
I got a new way of lovin', green men can't catch on
When your woman get my lovin', you can't keep her at home

Mmmmmmm, mmmmmmmm
Mmmmmmm, mmmmm-hmmmmmm
Mmmmm-mmm, mmmmmmmm

CODA

Edited 10/3 to pick up correction from islandgal

All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: islandgal on October 03, 2022, 09:04:09 AM
Sounds to me like "That gal in Chicago,"

Jean
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on October 03, 2022, 09:08:49 AM
Hi Jean,
At times I thought I heard "Chicago", too. But then it sounded like he preceded it with "left" sometimes. I'll re-listen. Thanks!
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on October 03, 2022, 10:55:53 AM
I re-listened, Jean, and I think you're right with "in Chicago". I have made the change.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 07, 2022, 10:55:08 AM
Hi all,
"City Cell Blues" was recorded at the same New York City session for ARC as was "Empty Room Blues", and like that tune, I believe it had Curley Weaver playing slide in Vestapol and Buddy Moss playing in Dropped-D tuning. I think the title was a lazy mis-hearing by the record company of "sit in my cell". These two duets by Curley and Buddy are really spectacular, and I have never heard either of them covered by present-day players. They are pretty obscure tunes, I suppose, and Curley seems to be one of those people like Jesse Thomas, who seems to be forgotten a lot. Here is "City Cell Blues":

https://youtu.be/y7bBuyAcEaQ

INTRO SOLO

It was all last night, I sit in my cell and cried
It was all last night, I sit in my cell and cried
Me and my buddy, layin' side by side

And I rolled and I tumbled, I rolled the whole night through
I rolled and I tumbled, I rolled the whole night through
It were worryin' me so bad, that I didn't know what to do (Spoken: Play it for me!)

SOLO

It was all last night, I sit in my cell alone
It was all last night, I sit in my cell alone
Thinkin' 'bout my good gal, that I left at home

When I was a free man, I had womens all over town
When I was a free man, had womens all over town
Now I'm in trouble, they can't be found

CODA

All best,
Johnm

Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 21, 2022, 05:45:55 PM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver and Buddy Moss joined forces for "Black Woman", recorded in New York City on September 19, 1933 at the same session they recorded "Empty Room Blues" and "City Cell Blues". What an exciting discovery these tracks have been--to my way of thinking some of the very best duet playing recorded featuring one slide player and one non-slide player, right up there with Sylvester Weaver and Walter Beasley. For this track, I believe that Buddy Moss was once again playing in dropped-D tuning and Curley was playing slide in Vestapol. The sheer amount of invention in these duets is quite surprising, for they have enough material in here for two or three normal songs, and never seem to run out of new ideas or licks to play. Here is "Black Woman":

https://youtu.be/VOOG-FdzcUw

INTRO SOLO

My gal, she's black and evil, and she wants to fight
My gal, she's black and evil, and she wants to fight
Now listen, sweet woman, you're not treatin' your daddy right

She fuss in the mornin', and she fuss at night
She fusses in the morning, and she fuss at night
Now listen, sweet woman, you're not treatin' your daddy right

SOLO (Spoken: Play it low and lonesome, boy!)

Don't want no woman, that stay out every night
Don't want no woman, that stay out every night
Just can't get the woman, to treat me right

Mmmmmm, mmmmm, mmmmm
Mmmmmm, mmmmm, mmmmm
Mmmmmm, mmmmm, mmmm, mmmm

CODA

All best,
Johnm
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on November 22, 2022, 01:50:27 PM
For 3.3 possibly,

Just can't get that a woman
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 22, 2022, 03:40:27 PM
Hi Blues Vintage,
I think I did have that word wrong, but rather than "a", I think it is "the". I hear a strong "th" on the front end of it, but no clear "t" at the end. I will make that change.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 26, 2022, 09:31:10 AM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver was joined by Buddy Moss for "Dirty Mistreater", which was also recorded at the New York session on September 19, 1933. The song has Buddy Moss once again playing out of dropped-D tuning, but tuned quite low, so that he is sounding in Bb, a full major third low. It's very difficult to ascertain, Curley Weaver's playing position, but I believe it to be C position in standard tuning, tuned a full step low. Once again, the interplay of the two guitars is quite dense, with a great deal of activity. I am really stumped by the ending of the first two lines of verse two and would very much appreciate some help with them. Here is "Dirty Mistreater":

https://youtu.be/yxvp-5zsBuU

INTRO SOLO

And you're a dirty mistreater, you don't mean no one man no good
And you're a dirty mistreater, you don't mean no one man no good
I don't blame you, mama, I'd do the same thing if I could

Mmm, the woman I love, she's stayin' 'hind the cold iron bars
Aint it hard, ain't it hard? she's stayin' 'hind the cold iron bars
I ain't got nobody, to get my ashes hauled

HUMMED VERSE (Spoken: Aw, boy, it's low and lonesome! Play that thing now!)

And you mistreat me, baby, you drove me from your door
And you mistreat me, baby, you drove me from your door
And the Good Book tell you, baby, mmm, you're bound to reap just what you sow

When I used to love, baby, what a fool I used to be (Spoken: Well, you was a big fool, wasn't you?)
When I used to love, baby, what a fool I used to be
I don't love nobody, that the fool that do love me

CODA

Edited 11/26 to pick up corrections from Blues Vintage

All best,
Johnm
 
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on November 26, 2022, 02:02:30 PM
Im not sure but the mystery line verse 2 sounds like;

she stayin' 'hind the cold iron bar  so a very slurred cut off way of sayin'  "she stayin' (or stays) behind the cold iron bars"

I hear, you was a big fool instead of "you's a big fool" in that last spoken part.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 26, 2022, 02:37:52 PM
That is great hearing, Blues Vintage. Might he possibly be saying "She's stayin'"? It sounds like there are two separate "s"s, one at the end of "She's" and one at the beginning of "stayin'". I think you're right on with the sense of what you heard, and I'll make the change in the spoken comment in the last verse, too.Thanks!
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on November 26, 2022, 02:58:55 PM
I agree with "she's" especially for 2.1
I do hear a full "behind" now in 2.2.  "be" just before the crack and "hind" after the crack in the record.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 26, 2022, 06:41:04 PM
Hi Blues Vintage,
Now that you mention 2.2, it's sounding to me like:
   Ain't it hard, ain't it hard? She's stayin' now in the cold iron bars

What do you think?
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: MarkC on November 27, 2022, 11:16:02 AM
I’m not hearing the “be”, but I’m amazed you figured out that line BV.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on November 27, 2022, 04:18:43 PM
I'll have to stand behind with what I had but I'm not sure. That scratch might alter the sound (and words). The sense is off with "now in the iron bars".

Thanks, MarkC. But I got some blues lyric books that help me. There are a lot of errors in them too but they are certainly useful.
The YouTube slow down function also really works for me (for the majority of the songs). I think about getting some good headphones for better results too.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on November 28, 2022, 09:28:00 AM
Hi Blues Vintage,
Like MarkC I do not hear the "be" in 2.2. I'll go with the same line ending in 2.1 and 2.2. Thanks for the help.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on November 28, 2022, 01:57:55 PM
Cool. I can live with that.
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on April 29, 2023, 01:41:07 PM
Hi all,
Curley Weaver recorded a solo version of "Some Rainy Day" at his last solo session, possibly recorded in New York City in 1949, according to the liner notes of the JSP set, "Atlanta Blues". Curley's accompaniment is unusual in its emphasis on the open first string when playing in G, giving the song a strong "sixth" sound. This song was recorded by a lot of Georgia musicians. Here is "Some Rainy Day":

https://youtu.be/X1ecJOhuLjM

Coming back, baby, you coming back, you coming back, baby, you coming back
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

I gave you money, to pay your room, you down in Florida, puttin' on a boom
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

You had my brother, my buddy, too, woulda had my daddy, but he wouldn't do
But you're comin' back, some old cold, rainy day

You left me, baby, sick, down on my bed, you walked away, baby, wishin' I was dead
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

You left me, baby, 'cause I was young and wise, you left me, baby, tears in my eyes
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

After all, baby, I done for you, you told me, baby, that you were through
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

Mmmm-mmm-mmm, mmm-mm-mmm, mm-mm-mm
Mmmm-mmm, mmm-mmm-mmm, mmm-mm-mm

After all, baby, is said and done, you told me, baby, I was the only one
But you're coming back, some old cold, rainy day

CODA

Edited 4/29 to pick up correction from Blues Vintage

All best,
Johnm




 
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Blues Vintage on April 29, 2023, 03:09:44 PM
5.1 makes no sense        You left me, baby, called me young and wise 

possibly  'cause I was young and wild

It really sounds like "wise" and maybe he misspeaks here and Curley meant to sing "wild".
Title: Re: Curley Weaver Lyrics
Post by: Johnm on April 29, 2023, 03:23:45 PM
Hi Blues Vintage,
I agree that that portion of the line begins "'cause I was", and will make that change. He does sing that last word as "wise", so I'll leave that, and I agree that he probably meant "wild", it's certainly the common end of that phrase. Thanks for the help.
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