music/lyrics
LISTEN TO THE BEAT
MUSIC/LYRICS
cALLING LONG DISTANCE
Released: 2024
From the upbeat, ear catching opening title track to the moody closer, this is an album you’ll listen to over and over – and still find new things in each song.
Featuring 8 originals and four covers, done in the unique Hitman style, you’re sure to find lots of songs you’ll want to share with friends. Everyone who has ever shared a bed with a “bed hog” will relate to “Edge Of The Bed”, and in these times of strong opinions we need to recognize our “Foolish Pride”. The risqué “Watch That Thing!” and blues surf instrumental “Blood Alley” will keep the excitement flowing, as “We’re Gonna Party Tonight” is a testament to making good times no matter what.
The original approaches to “Folsom Prison Blues”, as a genuine blues tune, and the funky blues arrangement of the classics “I Know You Rider” and “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down” will surprise you (in a very good way!) “Calling Long Distance” is a fun boogie with a mystical twist, and “Side Pocket For A Toad” honors one of Hitman’s favorite beers, from the UK Tring brewery. The thoughtful “Back To The Blues” sets you up for the album closer, “Wide Old River” – a modern take on the format of field hollers and work songs.
LYRICS
What do you do when you have to reach someone, even after they’ve passed?
Call VERY long distance!
Need to reach my buddy ‘cause I’m in a fix
But he passed away back in ‘96
Now I got some books and they all explain
How to reach somebody on the other plane
I’m calling long distance
Calling way long distance
I’m calling long distance
But all the lines are down
My crystal ball got a great big crack
My tarot cards are missing half the stack
My old dried bones have gotten wet somehow
Even my black cat bone is out of service now
I’m calling long distance
Calling way long distance
I’m calling long distance
But all the lines are down
My Ouija board don’t move at all
And my spirit guide won’t take my call
My crystal of power ain’t workin’ right
And my votive candle won’t even light
I’m calling long distance
Calling way long distance
I’m calling long distance
But all the lines are down
Well I held a séance with Miss DuPree
She said she had a message just for me
There is an easy answer, the message said
I’m gonna spell it out, but then the line went dead
I’m calling long distance
Calling way long distance
I’m calling long distance
But all the lines are down
Miss Catherine told me not to be a fool
Don’t waste my time, don’t bend the rules
She said the tea leaves told her I was in a jam
And I’d find my answer in an old tin can
She said wait an hour till the moon gets high
Go find the place where the seasons die
Count twenty paces to the westward side
Dig a dozen feet and it’ll save my hide
She called long distance
She called way long distance
When I called long distance
Baby all the lines were down
I took the road, I paid the toll
And now I’ve left the murderer’s hole
And the moral here is when it hits the fan
If you can’t fix it, find someone who can
Call long distance
Call way long distance
Call long distance
Even when the lines are down
©2024 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
If you’ve ever shared a bed with a “bed hog” (spouse, kids, pets) then you’ve LIVED this song.
I got a king sized bed
With fine satin sheets
But there’s no room for me
When I want to go to sleep
I’m on the edge of the bed
I’m on the edge of the bed
Now I don’t mean to pout
But my baby spreads out
I’m on the edge of the bed
Now if I push her back
Her eyes fill up with tears
She says I want to hug you
Baby don’t you want me here?
I’m on the edge of the bed
I’m on the edge of the bed
Now I don’t mean to pout
But my baby spreads out
I’m on the edge of the bed
I don’t ask for much
I work hard all day
I love my baby’s touch
But I can’t go on this way
I’m on the edge of the bed
I’m on the edge of the bed
Now I don’t mean to pout
But my baby sure spreads out
I’m on the edge of the bed
If it’s a tiny cot
Or fit for a king
No matter what the size
It doesn’t change a thing
I’m on the edge of the bed
I’m on the edge of the bed
Now I don’t mean to pout
But my baby spreads way out
I’m on the edge of the bed
©2024 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
The classic song by the Man In Black. I’ve always felt this would be a great slow blues.
I hear that train a-comin’
It’s rollin’ round the bend
And I ain’t seen the sun shine since
I don’t know when
I’m stuck in Folsom Prison, and time keeps draggin’ on
But that train keeps on rollin’, down to the San Antone
When I was just a baby
My mama told me “Son
Always be a good boy
Don’t ever play with guns”
But I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die
Now when I hear that whistle blowin’, I hang my head and cry
I’ll bet there’s people eatin’
In them fancy dining cars
They’re probably drinkin’ coffee
And smokin’ fat cigars
I know I had it comin’, I know I can’t be free
But I hear that whistle blowin’, and that’s what tortures me
The warden told me “Boy, you killed a man. A good man, a family man, for no reason at all. If it was up to me, I’d hang you right now. But the judge said life. Ok, that just means I get to kill you one day at a time.
No work detail for you. Not even a chain gang. You will never see anything but these four walls. You will never see the sun. And you will never be free.”
But you’re wrong, warden. Because one day, they’re going to carry me out of here. And on that day, I will be free. And no grave is gonna hold my spirit down. And I will ride that train to glory!”
When they free me from this prison
When that railroad train was mine
I’ll probably move it on a little further down the line
Far from Folsom Prison, that’s where I want to stay
And I’ll let that lonesome whistle, blow all my blues away
©1955 Johnny Cash/ All Rights Reserved
One of my favorite beers in the world is made by Tring Breweries in Tring, UK. “Side Pocket For A Toad” is an archaic expression that means “pretty worthless”. After all, what would a toad do with a sidepocket?!?
Out all night
Sleep all day
Never want to do a thing I say
Warn you baby (darling,)
I can’t take this heavy load
(Before I just explode)
You’re useless as a
Side Pocket For A Toad
(You know I)
Bring you beer, from
Down in Tring
But you don’t never do a doggone thing
A little love is the least of what I’m owed
But you ain’t no better than a
Side Pocket For A Toad
Collie’s Dog is gonna hunt you down
‘Cause I’m tired of you just
Running ‘round
Take a hint, better hit the road
Man, you ain’t nothin’ but a
Side Pocket For A Toad
©2022 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Sometimes a minor argument can take on a life of its own, with an estrangement as a possible end. Money, politics, trust, whatever the cause – but sometimes it just comes down to foolish pride.
Oh my love, how I wish that you had lied
Oh my love, how I wish that you had lied
Since you told me, and hurt my foolish pride
Tried so hard, tried to keep it all inside
Tried so hard, to keep it all inside
But how am I supposed to fight my foolish pride
I won’t go, I won’t ever leave your side
I won’t go, no I won’t ever leave your side
Because our love, is stronger than our foolish pride
Say our love is stronger than our foolish pride
Ain’t our love stronger than our foolish pride?
©2024 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
When the going REALLY gets tough, there’s only one thing to do – throw a party!
I ain’t had work since a month gone by
My bank account has long run dry
The ‘lectric bill had gone unpaid
They’ll shut it off in a couple days
Things lookin’ tough, I know it’s true
There’s only one thing left to do
I’m gonna party tonight
I’m gonna party tonight
If the world aint’ right
And the end’s in sight
Well I tried with all my might
Now I’m just gonna party tonight
Well the taxman came and said hello
And left a bill for what I owe
It’s getting rough without a doubt
My baby said she’s moving out
My car got towed to who knows where
At this point I don’t even care
I’m gonna party tonight
I’m gonna party tonight
If the world aint’ right
And the end’s in sight
Well I tried with all my might
Now I’m just gonna party tonight
Old man trouble walked right in
Made himself at home
I’ll just sit and drink all night
Since they shut off my phone
Laugh and dancin’ all night long
I bet a ten to end off strong
Six big numbers, all came in
And just for once, I get to win
So have a drink, my credit’s good
And let’s light up the neighborhood
I’m gonna party tonight
I’m gonna party tonight
If the world aint’ right
And the end’s in sight
Well I tried with all my might
Now I’m just gonna party tonight
©2022 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
Based on the traditional song, I updated the words a bit, and completely changed the melody and chords. I hope you like it anyway!
I know you rider gonna miss me when I’m gone
Gonna miss your baby from rollin’ in your arms
Well I tossed and turned, I could not sleep last night
I try so hard but you don’t treat me right
Sun’s gonna shine on my back door some day
Take my guitar and play my blues away
I wish I was a headlight on a northbound train
I’d leave this place and won’t come back again
Your pa he told me that my kind ain’t no good
I shoved my fist right through his long white hood
Some cold dark evening you’ll reach out your hand
And you’ll start crying for losing your good man
I know you rider gonna miss me when I’m gone
Gonna miss your baby from rollin’ in your arms
©2024 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Based on the traditional
Sometimes we think we’re being clever, running our hustles and grifts and convincing ourselves we’ve “pulled it off”. But sooner or later, it catches up with you. And then you may find yourself getting back to the blues.
Once I held diamonds in my hand
I thought that I could never lose
Wasting money, wasting time
I took the long way round to get back to the blues
I was building castles, in the clouds
Thought I’d never have to choose
I believed I could have it all
I took the long way round to get back to the blues
Oh I promised, many things
Just to could keep all in play
But I found out, it has to end
And there’s a price you’ve got to pay
Now the road’s been long and hard
And I’m back to paying dues
If it ends in heaven, or if it’s hell
It’s a long way round to get back to the blues
©2024 by Russell Alexander / all rights reserved.
This is a fun song, written by our friend Stuart Maxwell from the group Shufflepack. With his kind permission, we’re covering it!
I got a rod I take everywhere
People always stop and stare
Me and baby were stepping out
Folks in the club began to shout
You gotta watch that thing (watch that thing!) 4x
You gotta watch that thing, ‘specially when it starts to swing
Some girls laugh and some girls moan
And some just won’t leave me alone
I called to my baby come sit right here
She leaned and whispered in my ear
I went to the doctor be so kind
I can’t get that thing off of my mind
He said watch that thing
I called up the preacher sad and blue
I said what can a poor boy do
He said watch that thing
You gotta watch that thing (watch that thing!) 4x
You gotta watch that thing, ‘specially when it starts to swing
©2022 Stuart Maxwell, all rights reserved.
This was Kris Kristofferson’s first big hit, performed by Johnny Cash. It launched his career as a writer, and that led to his career as a performer.
This is our version – it’s nothing at all like the original, but I felt it was – at its heart – always a blues song.
Well I woke up Sunday mornin’, with no way to hold my head that didn’t hurt
And the beer I had for breakfast wasn’t bad, so I had one more, for dessert
Then I fumbled through my closet, for my clothes and found my cleanest dirty shirt
And I shaved my face and combed my hair and, stumbled down the stairs to meet the day
I’d smoked my brain the night before on, cigarettes and songs that I’d been pickin’
But I lit my first and watched a small kid cussin’ at a can, that he was kickin’
Then I crossed the empty street and caught the Sunday smell of someone fryin’ chicken
And it took me back to somethin’, that I’d lost somehow somewhere along the way
On the Sunday morning sidewalks, wishin’ I was stoned
‘Cause there’s something in a Sunday, makes a body feel alone
And there’s nothin’ short of dyin’, half as lonesome as the sound
On the sleepin’ city side walks, Sunday mornin’ comin’ down
In the park I saw a daddy, with a laughing little girl who he was swingin’
And I stopped beside a Sunday school and listened to the song that they were singin’
Then I headed back for home and somewhere far away a lonely bell was ringin’
And it echoed through the canyons like the disappointed (disappearing) dreams of yesterday
On the Sunday morning sidewalks, wishin’ I was stoned
‘Cause there’s something in a Sunday, makes a body feel alone
And there’s nothin’ short of dyin’, half as lonesome as the sound
On the sleepin’ city side walks, Sunday mornin’ comin’ down
©1969 Kris Kristofferson, All Rights Reserved.
Coming from traditional “field hollers” or work songs, this is a modernized version. Yes, it’s a bit on the dark side – or is it?
Keep on ridin’, It’s a wide old river (3x)
Wide old river, gonna carry you home
Storm is comin’, it’s a wide old river (3x)
Storm is comin’ gonna carry you home
Plenty of room in the ground (3x)
Plenty of room, gonna carry you home
Sharp as steel, it’s a blood red river (3x)
Sharp as steel, gonna carry me home
Plenty of room in the ground (3x)
Plenty of room, gonna carry me home
Keep on ridin’, It’s a wide old river (3x)
Wide old river, gonna carry us home
©2024 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
HEY, CAN YOU GUYS PLAY…
Released: 2023
Taken from our previous releases, this is a compilation of great songs that we covered, most in our own unique style. Now, that’s not hyperbole or boasting – the ones we customized really are completely different from the originals, and probably from any version you’ve ever heard before!
But don’t take our word for it – listen to the samples below. Plus, this album has a brand new song that’s never been on any previous album. It’s Kris Kristofferson’s “Sunday Morning Coming Down”, but you may not recognize it straight off!
If you’d like to get familiar with the Hitman Blues Band, and would rather start off with some familiar songs, this is the album for you.
LYRICS
Our take on the Willie Dixon classic
The gypsy woman told my mother
On the day I was born
You got a boy child comin’
He’s gonna be a son of a gun
He gonna make pretty women’s
Jump and shout
Then the world wanna know
What it’s all about
Because I’m him
Everybody knows I’m him
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Everybody knows I’m him
got a black cat bone
I got a mojo too
I got the Johnny Conqueror root
He’s gonna mess with you
I’m gonna take all the women
Lead me by my hand
Then the world gonna know
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Because I’m him
Everybody knows I’m him
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Everybody knows I’m him
On the seventh hour
On the seventh day
On the seventh month
The seven doctors say
He was born for good luck
Just you wait and see
I got seven hundred dollars
Don’t you fool with me
©1957 Willie Dixon. All Rights Reserved.
The Bob Dylan classic, done in the Hitman Blues Band style. This song is as relevant now as it was the day it was written.
Come gather ’round people, wherever you roam
Admit that the waters around you have grown
Accept it that soon you’ll be drenched to the bone
If time to you is worth saving
You better start swimmin’ or you’ll sink like a stone
The times, they are a-changin’
Come writers and critics who prophesize with your pen
And keep your eyes wide, the chance won’t come again
And don’t speak too soon, for the wheel’s still in spin
And there’s no tellin’ who that it’s namin’
For the loser now will be later to win
The times, they are a-changin’
Congressmen, senators, please heed the call
Don’t stand in the doorway, don’t block up the hall
For he that gets hurt will be he who has stalled
There’s a fire outside and it’s ragin’
Will soon shake your windows and rattle your walls
The times, they are a-changin’
Come mothers and fathers throughout the land
And don’t criticize what you can’t understand
Your sons and your daughters are beyond your command
Your old road is rapidly aging
Please get out of the new one if you won’t lend your hand
The times, they are a-changin’
©1963 Robert Dylan / All Rights Reserved
This was Kris Kristofferson’s first big hit, performed by Johnny Cash. It launched his career as a writer, and that led to his career as a performer.
This is our version – it’s nothing at all like the original, but I felt it was – at its heart – always a blues song.
Well I woke up Sunday mornin’, with no way to hold my head that didn’t hurt
And the beer I had for breakfast wasn’t bad, so I had one more, for dessert
Then I fumbled through my closet, for my clothes and found my cleanest dirty shirt
And I shaved my face and combed my hair and, stumbled down the stairs to meet the day
I’d smoked my brain the night before on, cigarettes and songs that I’d been pickin’
But I lit my first and watched a small kid cussin’ at a can, that he was kickin’
Then I crossed the empty street and caught the Sunday smell of someone fryin’ chicken
And it took me back to somethin’, that I’d lost somehow somewhere along the way
On the Sunday morning sidewalks, wishin’ I was stoned
‘Cause there’s something in a Sunday, makes a body feel alone
And there’s nothin’ short of dyin’, half as lonesome as the sound
On the sleepin’ city side walks, Sunday mornin’ comin’ down
In the park I saw a daddy, with a laughing little girl who he was swingin’
And I stopped beside a Sunday school and listened to the song that they were singin’
Then I headed back for home and somewhere far away a lonely bell was ringin’
And it echoed through the canyons like the disappointed (disappearing) dreams of yesterday
On the Sunday morning sidewalks, wishin’ I was stoned
‘Cause there’s something in a Sunday, makes a body feel alone
And there’s nothin’ short of dyin’, half as lonesome as the sound
On the sleepin’ city side walks, Sunday mornin’ comin’ down
©1969 Kris Kristofferson, All Rights Reserved.
Robert Johnson’s classic, done as a solo by Hitman. As he was wrapping up the first album (Blooztown), there was an acoustic guitar in the studio. He picked it up and played this, and the engineer said “Why didn’t we put that on tape yet?” Hitman said “I didn’t know if it should be on the album. Is it any good?” In unison, the producer and engineer said “YES! TAPE IT!”
When a woman in trouble,
Everybody puts her down
Looking for her good friend,
They can’t be found
You better come on in my kitchen
Hey, it’s going to be rainin’
I know
The woman I love,
I stole from my best friend
Some fool got lucky,
Stole her ‘way again
You better come on in my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be rainin’
I know
My baby’s gone,
Ain’t comin’ back
Took all my money,
Headed down the track
You better come on in my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be rainin’
I know
Went up to the mountain
Far as I could see
Another man’s got my girl
Lonesome blues got me
You better come on my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be raining
I know
©1937 Robert Johnson / All Rights Reserved
Another famous traditional that Blind Willie Johnson recorded. Aside from changing the melody and chords, I wondered:
What if John of Patmos was writing the Book Of Revelations, and some of the other gods stopped by? And told him their versions of the end of times?
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
John was writing, Buddha came by
Seven suns gonna fill the sky
Every creature will have to die
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Brahma laughed and shook his head
Many cycles until I’m dead
Keep in mind the things I said
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Odin said the worlds are nine
Ragnorok will come in time
Death will rise and I’ll face mine
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Mahdi came to take a look
Said “you’ve written quite a book”
When I appear you’re off the hook”
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Based on the traditional performed by Blind Willie Johnson
I heard this cut, written by the great hillbilly guitarist Louie Innis, performed by Wynonie Harris. It was on a fantastic compilation called “The History Of Rhythm And Blues, 1942 – 52” put out by Rhythm and Blues Records.
If you can find this collection, BUY IT. Not only does it have tons of incredible music, the book that accompanies it is a Masters course in R&B history, with lots of facts you won’t believe. It makes listening to the songs that much better, when you realize what that song meant in the history of music. Plus, they’re a cool company. My copy of the book fell apart, and they sent me a PDF version when I asked!
As for Wynonie Harris, well, here’s a quote from the book:
In an interview conducted after Harris died aged just fifty-four,
record producer Ralph Bass said of him, ‘Whatever age he was when he
died, just double it. That’s the way that motherf***er lived.’
Last month I went on a date
With good old Lucy Brown
We hit all the hot spots, we really tore it down
She’s five foot two with eyes of blue
Pretty as a queen
I didn’t know how pop was a city cop
And she’s just seventeen
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
Last week I did my income tax
To save a little dough
I cheated just a little bit, I knew they’d never know
My wife said “you be careful
Don’t you mess around”
But I just laughed, they’re understaffed
It never will be found
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
My wife and I, we separated
Just the other day
The last thing that she said to me was
“Buster, you will pay
You better send that check to me
Each week without fail”
I said, “Before I spend a dime
I’d rather be in jail!”
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
©1950 by Jouis Innis, All Rights Reserved.
This is based on the famous tune that Blind Willie Johnson recorded in 1927. I changed the lyrics on the verses, and the general feel of the song, but I hope I kept the original emotion.
Nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Now if I should die and my soul gets lost,
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My mama taught me how to pray
My mama taught me how to pray
Now if I don’t pray and my soul gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My daddy taught me how to think
My daddy taught me how to think
Now if I don’t think and my mind gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My brother taught me to be good
My brother taught me to be good
Now if I choose bad and my life is lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
I should drink water and not wine
I should drink water and not wine
Now if I drink wine and my love gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Now if I should die and my soul gets lost,
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Based on the traditional performed by Blind Willie Johnson
Harry “The Hipster” Gibson was a fellow at the Julliard Graduate School, but his actual playing style was a mix of boogie, stride, jazz, and ragtime – combined with, um, shall we say, “unorthodox” lyrics. He was a force of nature at the piano in both playing and performance. Having grown up near Harlem, he spoke the way everyone in uptown New York spoke – jive.
This song, while it gave him notoriety, also landed him on the music industry blacklist – putting his career into decline. But he kept performing, and actually switched to rock in the 1960’s, then hard rock in the 1970s.
Look online to find other great songs by Harry, as well as a biographical movie short called “Boogie In Blue”. And read the Wikipedia entry on him for more info.
Mrs. Murphy couldn’t sleep
Her nerves were slightly off the beat
Until she solved her problem
With a can of Ovaltine
She drank a cupful most every night
And oooo how she would dream
Until something rough got in the stuff
And made her neighbors scream. OW!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Sure was a shame, don’t know who’s to blame
Cause the old lady didn’t even get his name
Where did she get that stuff?
Now she just can’t get enough
It might have been the man who wasn’t there
Now Jack, that guy’s a square
She stays up nights making all the rounds
They say she lost about 69 pounds
Now Mr. Murphy claims she’s getting awful thin
And all she says is, “Give me some skin.” Mop!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Now she wants to swing, the Highland Fling
She says that Benzedrine’s the thing that makes her spring.
Ah, spring it now .
There’s a second verse
It’s called, “Who put the Nembutals in Mr. Murphy’s overalls?
I don’t know
She buys a can of Ovaltine, most every week or so
And she always keeps an extra can on hand
Just in case that she runs low
She never, ever been so happy, since she left old Ireland
‘Till someone prowled her pantry,sure and tampered with her can. Wham!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Sure was a shame, don’t know who’s to blame
Cause the old lady didn’t even get his name
Where did she get that stuff
Now she just can’t get enough
It might have been the man who wasn’t there
No Jack, that guy’s a square
She never ever wants to go to sleep
She says that everything is solid all reet
Now Mr. Murphy don’t know what it’s all about
Cause she went and threw the old man out. Clout!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Now she wants to swing the Highland Fling
She says that Benzedrine’s the thing that makes her spring
©1947 by Harry “The Hipster” Gibson, all rights reserved.
This became Son House’s signature song, and it was based on a number of songs that came before it. Our version, as usual, is NOTHING like his. But it gets the right mood, and can be scary as hell!
Woke up this morning, got a letter that read
Said, “Hurry, hurry, the girl you love is dead.”
Woke up this morning, got a letter that read
Said, “Hurry, hurry, the girl you love is dead.”
I packed up my suitcase, and took off down the road.
When I got there she was lying stiff and cold.
I packed up my suitcase, and took off down the road.
When I got there she was lying stiff and cold.
Kissed her forehead, right where she lay
I said “My love, I’ll see you on the Judgement Day.”
Kissed her forehead, right where she lay
I said “Oh my love, I’ll see you on the Judgement Day.”
There was 10,000 people at her buryin ground.
I didn’t know I loved her til they lowered her down.
There was 10,000 people at her buryin ground.
I didn’t know I loved her til they lowered her down.
There was just four women I love in my life
My mother, my sister, that woman and my wife
There was just four women I love in my life
My mother, my sister, that woman and my wife
Hush, I hear her calling my name
It ain’t too loud, just sweet and plain
Hush, I hear her calling my name
It ain’t too loud, just sweet and plain
Woke up this morning, got a letter that read
Said, “Hurry, hurry, the girl you love is dead.”
Woke up this morning, got a letter that read
Said, “Hurry, hurry, the girl you love is dead.”
©1965 Son House, all rights reserved.
Recorded in 1961, this quickly became a blues standard – but pop bands played it, too! A straight forward version of the classic, recorded live at Stonybrook University.
Boom boom boom boom
Gonna shoot you right down
Take you in my arms
I’m in love with you
Love that is true
Boom boom boom boom
I like the way you walk
I like the way you talk
When you walk that walk
And you talk that talk
You knock me out
Right off my feet
I need you now
I mean right now
I don’t mean tomorrow
I mean right now
Come on, come on
Come on and shake it up
Come on and shake (shake it baby)
Shake it up baby (shake it baby)
You drive me crazy (shake it baby)
Shake it up baby (shake it baby)
Come on, come on (shake it baby)
Yeah, yeah
©1961 John Lee Hooker/All Rights Reserved
NOT MY CIRCUS, NOT MY MONKEY
Released: 2020
This album contains ten new original songs, and one cover (done in the Hitman Blues Band style). Featuring captivating vocals, blistering solos, and a rhythm section pushing a consistently intense groove, it also boasts captivating lyrics ranging from light hearted to tragic. The recording starts off with “Not My Circus, Not My Monkey”, a line you’ll probably be using regularly from now on. This is followed by the tongue in cheek “Buy That Man A Drink”, as it’s far from an act of charity. Then comes a complete re-working of Blind Willie Johnson’s “Nobody’s Fault But Mine”, including all new lyrics that stay true to the spirit of the original. Keeping with Mr. Johnson, there is “John The Revelator” performed in a unique Hitman Blues Band style – and imagining that other gods stop by and reveal their own end-of-times scenarios to John. The heart wrenching ballad “No Place Like Home” offers somber reflection, and then comes a version of Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’” like you’ve never heard it before. The groove infused “You Can’t Say No” is followed by the light hearted come-on of “Walk With You”, which sets up the attempt to explain overpowering love in “You Don’t Understand”. The album takes a turn back to the late 1950’s influenced “Everybody But Me”, a comic take on hipster loneliness. The closing tune is the anthem for every artist who pushes on no matter what, “Go Down Fighting”.
LYRICS
Paul Gilmore turned me on to this saying, which has now become my “go to” phrase. It might become yours, too…
I met this lady with a winning smile
We had some drinks and then we talked awhile
She leaned in close and whispered in my ear
“I hope my boyfriend doesn’t show up here”
She said her ex had kind of lost his mind
On top of that, he was the jealous kind
Special forces, till they kicked him out”
Then she looked around to see if he’s about
She said “be ready, things might get funky”
I said,
“Whoa, not my circus, not my monkeys”
Monkey see, monkey do
Monkey see, but I’m not you
I got a burger from the all-night stand
This guy walks over with an open hand
He says “hey buddy, can you spare some change?
I haven’t eaten and I’m feeling strange”
I said “pick something” but he shook his head
“if you don’t mind, I’d rather have the bread” Um hm,
“if you could spare just a little more
I’ll take you someplace where we both could score”
Now, I’m no angel, but I ain’t no junkie,
I said,
“Not my circus, not my monkeys”
Monkey see, monkey do
Monkey see, but I’m not you
I like to think that I’m a caring man
And we’re all part of a bigger plan
But sometimes when it’s said and done
You got to grab your things and run
The general contractor had a worried frown
He said that ceiling’s got to come on down
But all his crew had a day of rest
And he was trying just to do his best
He pointed up, pointed way up high
Where even pigeons were afraid to fly
Asked me to climb up there and risk my skin
I said “Buddy, I’m just here to plug stuff in
I’d like to help you, but I ain’t that spunky
Not my circus, not my monkey”
©2020 Russell Alexander, Paul Gilmore / All Rights Reserved
There’s a routine for loudmouth hecklers:
One more drink, and that guy’s gonna lose his last brain cell. Hey bartender? I’d like to buy that man a drink. I thought it would make a charming song.
There’s a guy who’s yelling and acting wild
Looking for trouble and getting riled
One more drink, hit the spot
He’ll lose what little brain he’s got
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I got money out
To buy that man a drink
Rude to the ladies and the men
Barkeep tells me he’s the boss’s friend
His brain’s so damaged from wine and gin,
One more drink gonna do him in
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I got money out
To buy that man a drink
Everybody’s got a point of view
Being drunk doesn’t make it true
Call his friends at 3 am
To say he loves them, again and again
Fancy clothes expensive shoes
Screams while I’m trying to sing the blues
One more drink, scotch or rye
Kiss his last brain cell goodbye
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I’m gonna buy that man a drink
I got money out
To buy that man a drink
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
This is based on the famous tune that Blind Willie Johnson recorded in 1927. I changed the lyrics on the verses, and the general feel of the song, but I hope I kept the original emotion.
Nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Now if I should die and my soul gets lost,
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My mama taught me how to pray
My mama taught me how to pray
Now if I don’t pray and my soul gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My daddy taught me how to think
My daddy taught me how to think
Now if I don’t think and my mind gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
My brother taught me to be good
My brother taught me to be good
Now if I choose bad and my life is lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
I should drink water and not wine
I should drink water and not wine
Now if I drink wine and my love gets lost
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Nobody’s fault but mine
Now if I should die and my soul gets lost,
It’s nobody’s fault but mine
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Based on the traditional performed by Blind Willie Johnson
Another famous traditional that Blind Willie Johnson recorded. Aside from changing the melody and chords, I wondered:
What if John of Patmos was writing the Book Of Revelations, and some of the other gods stopped by? And told him their versions of the end of times?
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
John was writing, Buddha came by
Seven suns gonna fill the sky
Every creature will have to die
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Brahma laughed and shook his head
Many cycles until I’m dead
Keep in mind the things I said
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Odin said the worlds are nine
Ragnorok will come in time
Death will rise and I’ll face mine
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Mahdi came to take a look
Said “you’ve written quite a book”
When I appear you’re off the hook”
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Who’s that writing? John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Who’s that? Who’s that?
John the Revelator
Wrote the book of the seven seals
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Based on the traditional performed by Blind Willie Johnson
Many people regard the house they grew up in as “home”. And so it remains for awhile, but after both parents pass on, the heart and soul of it is gone. The same may be true when you lose a spouse and the place that you belonged to is now an empty shell.
And this was home
The place where I became
What I am today
The place you couldn’t stay
And this was home
They say you can’t go back
The colors run to black
And now I know
There’s no place like home
Not in this world
Not anymore
There’s no place like home
No bridge left to burn
No return
Now you’re gone
There’s no place like home
And this was home
The harsh doorway light
The uncertain nights
With no dawn in sight
And this was home
I hear your refrain
The echoes remain
But now I know
There’s no place like home
Not in this world
Not anymore
There’s no place like home
No bridge left to burn
No return
Now you’re gone
There’s no place like home
There is a hope within
That we may meet again
But who can say if that will be?
There’s no place like home
Not in this world
Not anymore
There’s no place like home
No bridge left to burn
No return
Now you’re gone
There’s no place like home
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
The Bob Dylan classic, done in the Hitman Blues Band style. This song is as relevant now as it was the day it was written.
Come gather ’round people, wherever you roam
Admit that the waters around you have grown
Accept it that soon you’ll be drenched to the bone
If time to you is worth saving
You better start swimmin’ or you’ll sink like a stone
The times, they are a-changin’
Come writers and critics who prophesize with your pen
And keep your eyes wide, the chance won’t come again
And don’t speak too soon, for the wheel’s still in spin
And there’s no tellin’ who that it’s namin’
For the loser now will be later to win
The times, they are a-changin’
Congressmen, senators, please heed the call
Don’t stand in the doorway, don’t block up the hall
For he that gets hurt will be he who has stalled
There’s a fire outside and it’s ragin’
Will soon shake your windows and rattle your walls
The times, they are a-changin’
Come mothers and fathers throughout the land
And don’t criticize what you can’t understand
Your sons and your daughters are beyond your command
Your old road is rapidly aging
Please get out of the new one if you won’t lend your hand
The times, they are a-changin’
©1963 Robert Dylan / All Rights Reserved
People go to fortune tellers to learn the future – maybe hoping they can change it. But one thing Greek tragedies tell us – repeatedly – is that your destiny cannot be changed. That may or may not be true, but one thing is for sure:
When life comes calling, you can’t say no.
Whoa, oh,oh, oh, oh
Whoa, oh,oh, oh, oh
You can’t fight it,
You can’t fight it
When life comes calling
You can’t say no
You can’t stop it
You can’t stop it
When life takes over
You can’t say no
You can’t say no
You can’t dodge it
You can’t dodge it
When fate comes calling
You can’t say no
You can’t lose it
You can’t lose it
Fate will find you
You can’t say no
You can’t say no
You find out
As you go
You’ll get through
But you can’t say no
Whoa, oh,oh, oh, oh
Whoa, oh,oh, oh, oh
You can’t stall it
You can’t stall it
When time comes calling
You can’t say no
You can’t slow it
You can’t slow it
When time comes calling
You can’t say no
You can’t say no
You find out
As you go
You’ll get through
But you can’t say no
When the blues comes calling
When the blues comes calling
When the blues comes calling
Well, you know
Too well, you know
Yes, you know
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
This is a silly, fun song. We’ve all been there – you see an attractive person, and unless you’re a horrific jerk, you play it cool. Dinner? Maybe. Dancing? Perhaps. But first, how about just taking a walk and getting to know each other?
You are a beauty
An innovator
You might have heard I’m
An operator
A whiskey hero
A hot mess
Well I don’t drink anymore
But I don’t drink any less
Just one thing I wish that you and I could do
Here’s my hand I want to take a walk with you
Down on the Main Street
Or by the lakeside
Out by the ball field
And watch the home pride
It doesn’t matter
If we’re together
Talking ‘bout life
Or talking ‘bout the weather
That’s the thing I wish that you and I could do
Here’s my hand I want to take a walk with you
People don’t change
But they can change their minds
Leave old habits and sins behind
I’ve been low
But never down
The thought of you brings me around
I’m not implying
I’ll make advances
I’m only trying
I’ll take my chances
Let’s cut the cards
And spin the wheel
Walk down the lane
I can tell you how I feel
That’s the thing I wish that you and I could do
Here’s my hand I want to take a walk with you
©2020 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Yes, love is grand. But sometimes one partner may not understand how much they affect the other one. It can be a positive, or a negative – or both…
You
You don’t
You don’t know, what you do to me
Chained to the blues
Till I met you
Drowning on dry land
It’s a cold and angry world
When no-one understands
I’m just a low born
Love torn
Struck by a hole in my heart
I’ve been put down
Pushed ‘round
You keep me from tearing apart
You don’t understand
Me
You don’t know, what you do to me
When you smile
My legs go weak
And all my anger fades
But when we fight
My heart might break
If my love should be betrayed
I’m just a low born
Love torn
Struck by a hole in my heart
I’ve been put down
Pushed ‘round
You keep me from tearing apart
You don’t understand
Me
You don’t know, what you do to me
©2020 Russell Alexander/All Rights Reserved
I wrote this as a jazz song in 1998, with lush strings (and a more explicit title). After doing it as a trio, I was encouraged to make a blues version for this album. I think everybody has felt like this at some point in their lives, so here’s the good news – it won’t stay that way.
I see it in their faces
The smiles when they come in
They don’t have to tell me
I know where they’ve been
It’s not a secret
In fact it’s plain to see
I can’t find the reason
Everybody’s getting some but me
The old man on the corner
The young man in the rain
The bagboy at the grocers’
Who does nothing but complain
They’ve all been seeing action
I’m lonely as can be
What is their strange attraction
Everybody’s getting some but me
Spring is full of love I hear
But it’s a mystery
Wrapped in chains and leather
Does she wait somewhere for me?
The girls I know all tell me
I’m really quite a guy
And if they weren’t married
They might give me a try
I’m feeling so abandoned
It’s almost by decree
My hand is no companion
Everybody’s getting some but me
Everybody’s getting some but me
©1998 Russell Alexander/All Rights Reserved
One day I was feeling sorry for myself and took the luxury of wallowing in self pity for about five minutes. Then a voice in my head cut in and said “Shut the f**k up, asshole. You made your choices. If you’re going to go down, go down fighting.”
And I thought, “hey, that would make a good song.” I hope you like it.
Too old
Too late
Missed my chance
Out of date
Must be foolish
Or naive
Past my prime
Better leave
I hear them say that I can’t win
But if this is the end
I’ll go down fighting
I’ll keep swinging
In the silence
I’ll be singing
I go down fighting
Success
Passed me by
Not cause I
Didn’t try
Slowing down
Feeling pain
Can’t go through it
All again
But every time I want to quit
I say if this is it
I’ll go down fighting
I’ll keep swinging
In the silence
I’ll be singing
I go down fighting
Knock me down a thousand times
I’ll give it one more try
I’ll go down fighting
Out of touch
Out of time
Say I’m out
Of my mind
I’ve been hurt
Been misled
Still the dreams
In my head
Every time I get denied
Shout my battle cry
I’ll go down fighting
No quiet exit from the scene
I’ll stand my ground and scream
I’ll go down fighting
I’ll keep swinging
In the silence
I’ll be singing
I go down fighting
©2020 Russell Alexander/All Rights Reserved
PLAYING TO THE CROWD
Released: 2017
Playing To The Crowd, performed by the Russell “Hitman” Alexander of the Hitman Blues Band, contains five original songs and six covers of tunes he loves. This ranges from Harry “The Hipster” classic song “Who Put The Benzedrine In Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine” to an updated version of “Mole In The Ground”, considered one of the precursors to bluegrass.
Hitman’s humor shines through on songs like “Aging Out”, bemoaning the ravages of getting old, and what is apparently a very wicked gentleman “Playing To The Crowd”. He’s so good, you may never leave his establishment…
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Playing To The Crowd”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“ A fun, solo outing by Hitman showing off his acoustic chops and off-beta! ” – BLUES TODAY
LYRICS
Harry “The Hipster” Gibson was a fellow at the Julliard Graduate School, but his actual playing style was a mix of boogie, stride, jazz, and ragtime – combined with, um, shall we say, “unorthodox” lyrics. He was a force of nature at the piano in both playing and performance. Having grown up near Harlem, he spoke the way everyone in uptown New York spoke – jive.
This song, while it gave him notoriety, also landed him on the music industry blacklist – putting his career into decline. But he kept performing, and actually switched to rock in the 1960’s, then hard rock in the 1970s.
Look online to find other great songs by Harry, as well as a biographical movie short called “Boogie In Blue”. And read the Wikipedia entry on him for more info.
Mrs. Murphy couldn’t sleep
Her nerves were slightly off the beat
Until she solved her problem
With a can of Ovaltine
She drank a cupful most every night
And oooo how she would dream
Until something rough got in the stuff
And made her neighbors scream. OW!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Sure was a shame, don’t know who’s to blame
Cause the old lady didn’t even get his name
Where did she get that stuff?
Now she just can’t get enough
It might have been the man who wasn’t there
Now Jack, that guy’s a square
She stays up nights making all the rounds
They say she lost about 69 pounds
Now Mr. Murphy claims she’s getting awful thin
And all she says is, “Give me some skin.” Mop!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Now she wants to swing, the Highland Fling
She says that Benzedrine’s the thing that makes her spring.
Ah, spring it now .
There’s a second verse
It’s called, “Who put the Nembutals in Mr. Murphy’s overalls?
I don’t know
She buys a can of Ovaltine, most every week or so
And she always keeps an extra can on hand
Just in case that she runs low
She never, ever been so happy, since she left old Ireland
‘Till someone prowled her pantry,sure and tampered with her can. Wham!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Sure was a shame, don’t know who’s to blame
Cause the old lady didn’t even get his name
Where did she get that stuff
Now she just can’t get enough
It might have been the man who wasn’t there
No Jack, that guy’s a square
She never ever wants to go to sleep
She says that everything is solid all reet
Now Mr. Murphy don’t know what it’s all about
Cause she went and threw the old man out. Clout!
Who put the Benzedrine, in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine?
Now she wants to swing the Highland Fling
She says that Benzedrine’s the thing that makes her spring
©1947 by Harry “The Hipster” Gibson, all rights reserved.
Getting old ain’t for sissies. All those injuires you forgot about grab you by the hand and body slam you. You take drugs to stay alive, instead of living to take drugs.
And they don’t even give you a buzz.
And you have to get healthy if you don’t want to end up with an aide helping you to go to the bathroom. Exercise, eat right, stay fit. Party time is over.
Maybe just one scotch.
Or two.
Woke up one morning, I was feeling down
Called up the doctor, he said “come around”
You’re not as young as you used to be
We haven’t seen you here since ‘93
When I got there they handed me a stack
“Fill out these papers and then bring them back
There’s lots of things about you we don’t know
Just write it in and then away we go”
They checked my pulse and it was 109
They check me back there where the sun don’t shine
They checked my liver and they checked my tongue
They told me “Mister, we’ve just begun”
Don’t bother me, I don’t have the time
This aging out is weighing on my mind
Don’t bother me, am I doing fine
This aging out is getting too unkind
My back is aching, I can’t see my toes
My stomach’s growing like my ears and nose
My hair is sprouting where it shouldn’t be
My knees feel like someone is stabbing me
Fell off a bike when I was 24
I said “I’m fine” and then I rode some more
My body hid it for a long long time
Now it’s reminding me I wasn’t fine
I’m taking Ambien and Synthroid too
A bunch of Klonipin to see me through
Lasix and Lipitor, I don’t know why
None of this garbage even gets me high
Don’t bother me, I don’t have the time
This aging out is weighing on my mind…
They’re saying that I have to cut out meats
Stop drinking coffee and don’t touch the sweets
A glass of wine is cool, but only one
Be sure to stop if it starts getting fun
If I should do cocaine my heart will fry
Don’t drink a scotch unless I want to die
Count up my calories and hit the gym
It would be easier to pack it in
I used to party out from bar to bar
Now I get sleepy from a PBR
Look in the mirror at the man I see
Who is that geezer looking back at me?
Don’t bother me, I don’t have the time
This aging out is weighing on my mind…
Hey you kids, get off my lawn
They don’t write good songs anymore
These kids don’t know nothin’
©2017 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
If you’re lucky, you find someone like this in your life.
I’ve been awake too many nights
Waiting for sleep to overtake me
Carried my load down that long winding road
The one that I swore wouldn’t break me
Time is going faster
Days slipping by
She’s here, and still I don’t know why
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
I spend my days with a smile on my face
Oh, I keep my friends amused
But late at night, all the memories crowd back in
Of people, using and misused
And yes, I’ve been forsaken
And yes, I’ve been alone
And looking for a light to guide me home
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
And if confusion follows me
And debt and worry keep me company
When nobody knows the pain inside of me
She knows
And when I think about it
The way things might have been
Mistakes made, again and again and again
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
©2003 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
This classic song by Blind Blake has been covered by hundreds of artists. His playing style has inspired artists from Jorma Kaukonen (Jefferson Airplane, Hot Tuna) to Ry Cooder to Leon Redbone.
Take a bit of time and look him up, and listen to some of his recordings. He only recorded from 1926 to 1932, and in that time he recorded 80 tunes. Those recordings had an enormous effect on future generations of guitarists.
There’s a great big mystery
And it sure is worrying me
This diddy wah diddy, diddy wah diddy
I wish somebody’d tell me what
Diddy wah diddy means
A little girl ’bout four feet four
She said Hitman give me some more of your
Dddy wah diddy, diddy wah diddy
I wish somebody’d tell me what
Diddy wah diddy means
I went out and walked around
Somebody yelled “look who’s in town”
Mr. Diddy wah diddy, diddy wah diddy
I wish somebody’d tell me what
Diddy wah diddy means
Got on a bus, put my hat on the seat
Lady sat on it, said “you sure are sweet”
Mr. Diddy wah diddy, diddy wah diddy
I wish somebody’d tell me what
Diddy wah diddy means
I said “honey, I’ll soon be gone
Just give me that thing you’re sitting on”
My diddy wah diddy, my diddy wah diddy
I wish somebody’d tell me what
Diddy wah diddy means
©1929 by Blind Blake, public domain.
Harry “The Hipster” Gibson was a fellow at the Julliard Graduate School, but his actual playing style was a mix of boogie, stride, jazz, and ragtime – combined with, um, shall we say, “unorthodox” lyrics. He was a force of nature at the piano in both playing and performance. Having grown up near Harlem, he spoke the way everyone in uptown New York spoke – jive.
Stop That Dancing Up There is like nothing else written at it’s time. Funny, quirky, and clearly insane, yet not “cutsie” like some other novelty tunes of the period, it shows how far ahead of his time Gibson was.
Look online to find other great songs by Harry, as well as a biographical movie short called “Boogie In Blue”. And read the Wikipedia entry on him for more info.
I was standing on the corner, in the middle of the block
I saw a lady standing there, sitting on a rock
As she began to talk, I ran as fast as I could walk,
I heard her shout “Look out! Stop that dancing up there!”
I was strolling through the park in the middle of the night
The night was very dark cause the sun was shining bright
I spied a lark and the lark began to bark,
“Stop that dancing up there!”
Some folks say that I’m insane
And just as goofy as can be
But they’re all wrong, I’m all right
Everybody’s crazy but me
I’m living in the cellar, on the 7th floor
I can’t go to sleep ’till I hear myself snore
Now the people downstairs say I’m an awful square
When I shout, “Hey, stop that dancing up there!”
©1943 by Harry “The Hipster” Gibson, all rights reserved.
You can see a video I made for this song (with full instrumentation) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g6_TLaa-AVc
During one of the tours in the UK, I stopped and spent time looking at a war memorial. I noticed that, in WW1, there would be groups of people with the same surname – indicating that an entire male generation of a family had been wiped out.
Then, under the WW2 section, there would be some of the same surnames. I thought “what kind of courage did it take to go to war against the same enemy, in the same countries, that had decimated your family?”
My mom grew up in wartime London. I’ve never asked her about who she lost, and the few times I asked what it was like she would say things like “we would go down to the shelters, and the next day the houses that had been there were gone”.
But I wrote this to honor those brave men and women whose names are now etched in stone. One day, when you pass by a memorial, take a few moments and read them.
Every one.
On a little street, in this little town
There’s a wooden bench, where the men sit down
You can see the names there,
Etched in stone
Of the men who died with their helmets on
There’s my father’s name, he died much too young
But here I go, I’m my father’s son
And if I don’t return to you
Make sure my name is up there too
Well they said that his would end all wars
So he left my mom, for a noble cause
And he wrote and told her everything
And she keeps his letters tied up with string
And now I’m told to serve with pride
In the killing fields where my father died
And if I don’t come back to you
Make sure my name is up there too
Do you ever stop, do you ever see?
Will you walk on by, or remember me
Will you look up close, and read every one
Do you see the fathers and the sons?
Do you see the fathers and the sons?
(play intro chords)
Well they cut him down with a dozen men
In the filthy trench that they’d won again
And the men who killed him died there too
When the next assault came charging through
Will I fight the sons of the very men
Who slew my father way back then
And what will happen if I do
Will I find my way back home to you?
Do you ever stop, do you ever see?
Will you walk on by, or remember me
Will you look up close, and read every one
Do you see the fathers and the sons?
Do you see the fathers and the sons?
And if I don’t come back to you
Make sure my name is up there too
©2015 by Russell Alexander, All Rights Reserved.
I heard this cut, written by the great hillbilly guitarist Louie Innis, performed by Wynonie Harris. It was on a fantastic compilation called “The History Of Rhythm And Blues, 1942 – 52” put out by Rhythm and Blues Records.
If you can find this collection, BUY IT. Not only does it have tons of incredible music, the book that accompanies it is a Masters course in R&B history, with lots of facts you won’t believe. It makes listening to the songs that much better, when you realize what that song meant in the history of music. Plus, they’re a cool company. My copy of the book fell apart, and they sent me a PDF version when I asked!
As for Wynonie Harris, well, here’s a quote from the book:
In an interview conducted after Harris died aged just fifty-four,
record producer Ralph Bass said of him, ‘Whatever age he was when he
died, just double it. That’s the way that motherf***er lived.’
Last month I went on a date
With good old Lucy Brown
We hit all the hot spots, we really tore it down
She’s five foot two with eyes of blue
Pretty as a queen
I didn’t know how pop was a city cop
And she’s just seventeen
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
Last week I did my income tax
To save a little dough
I cheated just a little bit, I knew they’d never know
My wife said “you be careful
Don’t you mess around”
But I just laughed, they’re understaffed
It never will be found
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
My wife and I, we separated
Just the other day
The last thing that she said to me was
“Buster, you will pay
You better send that check to me
Each week without fail”
I said, “Before I spend a dime
I’d rather be in jail!”
Good morning judge, why do you look so mean sir?
No Mr. Judge, what can the problem be?
You don’t think I was part this affair?
It wasn’t me, it couldn’t be, I wasn’t even there
©1950 by Jouis Innis, All Rights Reserved.
There’s an old joke among musicians that hell would be condemned to play “If” in a cocktail lounge – forever. No breaks or holidays, and you’d have to play that one song, over and over.
But what if the Devil was the musician, and was actively looking for new customers? What if it looked just like any corner bar?
How about stopping by for a drink? Don’t worry, you can leave any time you like…
Have some wine
Have some gin
Always open, walk right in
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
Fish is fresh
Steaks are thick
Hardly no one comes out sick
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
There might be a fight or two
But take that stuff outside
We’ve had lots of trouble here
But no one’s ever died (well they can’t)
Pretty girls and
Handsome men
Come inside you’ll fit right in
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
Prices posted
Plain to see
Love and heartache come for free
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
I can play the songs you loved
When you were young and free
Every dream you ever had
Still can come to be
Saints and sinners
Devils too
Angels dance the hoochie koo
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
Stay an hour
Or through the eve
You don’t ever have to leave
I’ll be here just playing to the crowd
©2017 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Mole In The Ground is a traditional American folk song. One of the early famous recordings was by Bascom Lamar Lunsford in 1928. A friend of mine, who plays bluegrass professionally, told me it is considered one of the first two bluegrass tunes ever written, although I can’t find any verification for this. Bluegrass, as a genre, wasn’t referred to as such until the late 1950’s.
At any rate, I heard the song performed by Serious Sam Barrett and David Broad on their “Live At Cafe Lento” release (check it out, it’s great!) While I love the way they do it, I, *ahem*, “updated” it a bit.
I wish I was a mole in the ground.
Yes, I wish I was a mole in the ground.
If I was a mole in the ground, I’d sap that building down,
And I wish I was a mole in the ground.
Oh, Jenny wants a five dollar shawl.
Yes, Kimpy wants a five dollar shawl.
When I come o’er the hill with a fifty dollar bill,
‘Tis, “Baby, where you been so long?”
I been in the jail so long.
Yes, I been in the jail so long.
I been in the jail with to throw my bail.
That’s where I been so long
Jenny, let your hair roll down.
Jenny let your hair roll down.
Let your hair roll down every time I come around.
Jenny, let your hair roll down.
I don’t like a railroad man.
No, I don’t like a railroad man.
Well that railroad man, he’ll kill you when he can,
And drink up your blood like wine.
I wish I was a mole in the ground.
Yes, I wish I was a mole in the ground.
If I was a mole in the ground, I’d tear that building down,
I wish I was a mole in the ground.
© Traditional, public domain.
This is based on the traditional Irish folk song, “Seven Drunken Nights”, itself based on the Scottish folk song “Our Goodman” – from the 1770s! Seems this kind of thing has been going on for a loooonnnnnnggggg time. Since then, it’s been redone as “Four Nights Drunk”, “The Drunk Cowboy” (which is Russian!), and Delbert McClinton did his own version. There are LOTS of others, too.
This is the way I heard it, but I made various changes in items and days of the week, as well as the melody. Thanks to my lovely wife, Joanne, for doing the lady’s part – where she has to come up with an excuse each night.
I got home last Monday
I was drunk as a man could be
There was a car sitting in my driveway
Where my car is suppose to be
I said wake up, baby
Please explain all this all to me
Why’s there a car sitting in my driveway
Where my car is suppose to be
She said: honey, you must be crazy
If you’d open up your eyes you’d see
There ain’t nothing but a wagon
That my grandmother gave to me
I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
I ain’t never seen a wagon
With a fenders and headlights before.
I got home last Tuesday
I was drunk as a man could be
There was a coat hanging in my closet
Where my coat was supposed to be
I said wake up, baby
Please explain all this all to me
Why is there a coat hanging in my closet
Where my coat is supposed to be
She said: honey, you must be crazy
If you’d open up your eyes you’d see
There ain’t nothing but a blanket
That my sister gave to me
I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
I ain’t never seen a blanket
With a collar and buttons before
I got home last Wednesday
I was drunk as a man could be
There was a hat sitting on my dresser
Where my hat is supposed to be
I said wake up, baby
Please explain all this all to me
Why is there a hat sitting on my dresser
Where my hat is supposed to be
She said: honey, you must be crazy
If you’d open up your eyes you’d see
That ain’t nothing but a wash bag
That my brother gave to me
I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
I ain’t never seen a wash bag
With a brim and a feather before.
I got home last Thursday
I was drunk as a man could be
There were boots underneath my bed
Where my boots are supposed to be
I said wake up, baby
Please explain all this all to me
Why are there boots underneath my bed
Where my boots are supposed to be?”
She said: honey, you must be crazy
If you’d open up your eyes you’d see
That ain’t nothing but a breadbox
That my father gave to me
I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
I ain’t never seen a breadbox
With heels and laces before.
I got home last Friday
I was drunk as a man could be
There was a head lying on my pillow
Where my head is supposed to be
I said wake up, baby
Please explain all this all to me
Why are there a head lying on my pillow
Where my head is supposed to be?”
She said: honey, you must be crazy
If you’d open up your eyes you’d see
That ain’t nothing but a pumpkin
That my mother gave to me
Well, I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
I ain’t never seen a pumpkin
With eyebrows and a beard before.
Yes, I’ve been all over the world
I’ve been to the Gulf Of Mexico
Now you can take your pumpkin, and your breadbox, and your wash bag
And head right out the door!
©2017 Russell Alexander/All Rights Reserved
I wanted to end off with a little tune – and here it is. Don’t read too much into it – it’s not a death song, or an epilog. It’s just – a little tune before I go.
I’ve been thinking
What to do
When time is running low
Just a little
Tune before I go
And I’ve been wondering
What to say
Something you don’t know
Just a little
Tune before I go
Kings and queens
And silver spoons
It all comes down to this
When the hourglass runs out
The scythe will never miss
I’ve been thinking
‘Bout the road
It may be high or low
Just a little
Tune before I go
Trying hard
To understand
The meaning of it all
What will be
The final act
Before the curtain call?
I’ve been thinking
What to do
When time is running low
Just a little
Tune before I go
©2017 Russell Alexander/All Rights Reserved
THE WORLD MOVES ON
Released: 2016
The World Moves On, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains seven new original songs, one cover (done in the Hitman Blues Band style) and five reworked original songs. These reworked tunes have the Hitman Blues Band horn and backup vocalist sections added, and have been remixed and remastered.
The players feature such luminaries as Kevin Bents (Spin Doctors, Boz Scaggs, Phoebe Snow), Bernard “Pretty” Purdie (Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan, B.B. King, Joe Cocker – to name just a few), Bobby Forrester (Ruth Brown, Lena Horne), Ray Alexander (George Shearing, Stan Getz, Mel Torme), and Richard Crooks (Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen), to name a few.
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “The World Moves On”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists” – MusikReviews
“The Hitman knocks this one out of the park.” – SMOKEY MOUNTAIN BLUES
LYRICS
When I was (much) younger, I faced a choice as to which direction I would take. I chose one way, some friends chose the other.
For the ones that are still alive, they find themselves older, usually in trouble, and unable to understand why their lives went into the crapper. They still make the same mistakes, and probably always will.
As Dicken’s ghost of Marley says in “A Christmas Carol”, they forged their chains link by link. Maybe at some point they’ll get a visit from three ghosts…
Well if I knew now what I didn’t know then
I wouldn’t be back in this place again
With blood on my face and a drink in my hand
And a gun in my back from a one night stand
I’m a bad bad man
I can’t deny it
I’m a bad bad man
That’s just the way I am
I’m a bad bad man
Why try and fight it
Love a bad bad man
Well if I go home they’ll be waiting for me
I’ll get big numbers and never be free
I’m getting too old to stay in this game
There’s no one but me I can say is to blame
I’m a bad bad man
I can’t deny it
I’m a bad bad man
That’s just the way I am
I’m a bad bad man
Why try and fight it
Love a bad bad man
I look at the houses, the yards and the kids
I know I’ve done things their folks never did
I’ve had that big money, been beat up and broke
Seen good times and bad times all go up in smoke
I’m a bad bad man
I can’t deny it
I’m a bad bad man
That’s just the way I am
I’m a bad bad man
Why try and fight it
Love a bad bad man
©2016 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Have you ever seen a beautiful girl, dressed to kill, who gave you a dirty look for staring at her? Did you wish you could express what it feels like? We’re all in that club.
Baby, are you hungry?
Well, I’ve got some chocolate right here
It’s thick and rich, it’ll scratch your itch
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
Baby, are you thirsty?
Well, I’ve got some soda right here
It’s bubbly and brown, it’ll cool you down
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
If a man’s just a man, well that’s all that I am
And girl, you’re keeping me on the run
When you bump and grind, I just lose my mind
But then you say it’s only in fun
Baby, are you tired?
Well, I’ve got a mattress right here
It’s comfy and soft, you can drift right off
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
©2003 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Don’t come off all innocent like. You make my old hormones rage, and then ask a provocative question…
It’s a fun, silly song. I started off thinking I would write this in a Ralph Kramden interpretation (“Ooooh, don’t tempt me. One of these days, Alice – bang! Zoom!) but it didn’t sit right with me. This version is more more my style.
She comes up to me
Smile on her face
Coos “can you think of a
Nice warm place”
Wears her dress
Front cut low
Asks me where
I’d like to go
Don’t you tempt me baby
Honey you’ve been warned
Don’t you tempt me baby
I’m barely holding on
She got big brown eyes
Long blonde hair
And if it’s dyed
Well, I don’t care
She wears her skirt
Way up high
Asks what I’d like
To do tonight
Don’t you tempt me baby
Honey you’ve been warned
Don’t you tempt me baby
I’m barely holding on
She wants her coffee
While she lies in bed
And I’m running late
But she turns my head
Her voice is warm
Her lips are soft
When she turns me on
I can’t turn off
She wears a grin
Like a Cheshire Cat
‘Cause she always knows
Where my mind is at
I can talk
But it’s understood
She’ll say “put those lips
Where they’ll do some good”
Don’t you tempt me baby
Honey you’ve been warned
Don’t you tempt me baby
I’m barely holding on
©2016 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
This seems to be a relationship song – it’s not. It’s about quitting your job! Sort of a modern blues version of “Take This Job and Shove It”. But hey, if it applies to a relationship you’re getting out of, feel free to use it as your theme song!
Don’t look for me tomorrow
I’ll be moving on today
Don’t look for me tomorrow
I’ll be moving on today
I’ve had my share of sorrow
Thinking I’ll be on my way
Well I’ve had enough of trying
Will you notice when I’m gone
Well I’ve had enough of trying
Will you notice when I’m gone
All the double talk and lying
Thinking I’ll be moving on
You say how much you need me
But you only do me wrong
You say how much you need me
But you only do me wrong
No one else will free me
Oh, I’ll be moving on
©2016 by Russell Alexander and Mike Porter (music), Russell Alexander (lyrics), All Rights Reserved.
When a relationship is almost at the critical mass point, there should be some kind of buzzer to let you know. Maybe people can play this song, as a not too subtle hint.
This is your two minute warning
You’re very nearly out of time
You want some love and compassion
You’ve taken nearly all of mine
This is a tough situation
‘Cause I’ll love you till the day I die
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
This is last chance condition
You can’t expect that I’ll hold on
I’ve tried to keep the attraction
But you’ve beat it ’till it’s almost gone
This is a bad situation
‘Cause a broken heart can never mend
This is your two minute warning
Before the end
When it all began, I was under a spell
Now I can’t understand, how it started so well
Baby, whatever happened to us?
This is a hard conversation
But it’s one we should have had before
It seems like harsh confrontation
Is all we ever have anymore
Say you’ll work with me baby
Tell me that you’re gonna try
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Everything changes. Neighborhoods and entire cities come and go. People die. Values change. And like the 60’s song says, you may look at people and think “Don’t they know it’s the end of the world?”
But the world moves on. And, somehow, so do we.
Well, I knew this day was coming
Each beginning has an end
But it’s just too hard to face it
It’s so easy to pretend
Smiling faces caught forever
Living in a photograph
While the sun is dropping lower
As we hit the second half
And the world moves on
And the center is gone
And I can’t hold on
So the world moves on
Oh the good times I remember
I didn’t recognize them then
Now the buildings all are falling
And they can never rise again
And did I ever really thank you
Did you know how good you’ve done
I sing the blues after midnight
While shadows
Build up one by one
And the world moves on
And the center is gone
And I can’t hold on
So the world moves on
©2016 by Russell Alexander and Mike Porter (music), Russell Alexander (lyrics), All Rights Reserved.
Give an inch, somebody might take a mile. Until you have a nice, calm discussion about things…
Surprise, my baby, I know you been around (2x)
You’ve had it free and easy I’m gonna put the hammer down
Seems you just come home, then you’re going out again (2x)
Don’t you try and kiss me, I don’t know where those lips have been
Friends have been talkin’, you’ve been seen all over town (2x)
Well the good times are over I’m gonna put the hammer down
Don’t you make excuses, you know I gave you everything (2x)
Don’t you hear that hammer whistle? Don’t you hear that hammer sing?
Well I may be a fool, but don’t you think that I’m blind (2x)
Gonna bring that hammer down, Lord, I’m gonna take what’s mine
©2002 by Russell Alexander, All Rights Reserved.
The whole song is a metaphor. Do you stay? Go? There’s always that pull – what’s over there? Something better? Something terrible? What are you going to decide?
There are two trains running
Runnin’ down the track
One pulled into the station
The other ain’t coming back
There are two birds flying
Flying from the storm
One of them rides the lightning
The other is safe and warm
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
It’s do or die
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on
We’re going to the other side
There are two roads winding
Winding through the mist
One will bring you safety
The other you can’t resist
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
It’s do or die
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on (we’re at the crossroads)
Come on
We’re going to the other side
There are two doors waiting
For you to try
One leads to the bedroom
The other leads to goodbye
Now there’s one train running
Running, down the track
Will it ever pull into the station
Can it ever really come on back
©2016 by Russell Alexander and Mike Porter. All Rights Reserved.
It just keeps coming up. He’s got this, but he wants that. She did this, but wants to do the other. I’m happy just to play the blues, but a car that’s less than half my age would be nice, too.
Fun tune to record, and I got to hear my dad, Ray Alexander, stretch out a little bit. Johnny sounds like he’s playing an upright bass on this, but it’s actually a Fender.
Well a bug can’t lift a twig,
For a dog it’s nothing big
But he don’t want to
And the dog can’t grab a cat,
A raccoon can do all that
But he don’t want to
And I dream of you at night,
While you hold your baby tight
But he don’t want you
You can see it in his eyes,
From the way he tells you lies
That he don’t want you
He stays at work too long,
And you beg him to come home
But he don’t want to
Girl I’d be so good for you,
I know you could love me too
But you don’t want to
I got a black book full of numbers,
Of names I’ll never call
They only make me think of you,
You don’t think of me at all
A pig can’t eat a cow,
That old bear could show him how
But he don’t want to
Now that bear can’t reach the bees,
An eagle can with ease
But he don’t want to
Baby it’s a shame,
Your man calls someone else’s name
But girl I want you
He doesn’t love her, but she doesn’t care
I’m in the middle with my heart up in the air
It’s true, it’s like the old catch-22
‘Cause love is taking numbers
But the order’s gone askew
©1999 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
If you’re lucky, you find someone like this in your life.
I’ve been awake too many nights
Waiting for sleep to overtake me
Carried my load down that long winding road
The one that I swore wouldn’t break me
Time is going faster
Days slipping by
She’s here, and still I don’t know why
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
I spend my days with a smile on my face
Oh, I keep my friends amused
But late at night, all the memories crowd back in
Of people, using and misused
And yes, I’ve been forsaken
And yes, I’ve been alone
And looking for a light to guide me home
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
And if confusion follows me
And debt and worry keep me company
When nobody knows the pain inside of me
She knows
And when I think about it
The way things might have been
Mistakes made, again and again and again
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
©2003 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
I debated whether to put what this song is about online. But here goes:
Unlike most of my songs, this didn’t happen to me, personally.
Thank G-d. I hope it never does.
It’s about a couple I read about. Married for 50 years. She was dying, in incredible pain, and nothing could be done. He took it upon himself to do the hardest thing anyone ever can – he helped her to pass. And a few hours later, he went to join her.
This may be what he thought of during the hours in between.
Jenny goodbye, Jenny goodbye
Jenny my love, we’ll be together tonight
Well I see that highway
I see that train
And I get to thinkin’
About an end to pain
Jenny goodbye, Jenny goodbye
Jenny my love, we’ll be together tonight
And our love was true
And our love was right
Now she’s gone
And I’ve lost the light
Jenny goodbye, Jenny goodbye
Jenny my love, we’ll be together tonight
Oh the hours are draggin’
The world’s in a mist
At the last she whispered
“Give me one more kiss”
Jenny goodbye, Jenny goodbye
Jenny my love, we’ll be together tonight
Our friends ask about you
They can see how I’m torn
Why does fortune hate me
Wish I’d never been born
Jenny goodbye, Jenny goodbye
Jenny my love, we’ll be together tonight
(I’ll be right on by)
© 2016 by Russell Alexander. All Rights Reserved.
Yes – it’s a blues love song.
I think it’s pretty self explanatory. If you have any questions, ask your significant other.
You
You took my breath away
Even as I
Walked out the door
But you know
That I’ll be back
‘Cause after all
I’m all about you
Oh by tomorrow
I’ll be right by your side
I’ll never leave you
God knows I’ve tried
You make me whole
And I can’t control
How I feel
I’m all about you
Say that you’re mine forever
Tell me you’ll stay by my side
It’s not my pride
I thought you knew
I’m always I’m all about you
It’s always so clear
But I miss it, now and then
That having you here
Is my life
Say that you’re mine forever
Tell me you’ll stay by my side
It’s not my pride
I thought you knew
After all, I’m all about you
©2016 by Russell Alexander and Kevin Rymer (music, Russell Alexander (lyrics). All Rights Reserved.
Our take on the Willie Dixon classic
The gypsy woman told my mother
On the day I was born
You got a boy child comin’
He’s gonna be a son of a gun
He gonna make pretty women’s
Jump and shout
Then the world wanna know
What it’s all about
Because I’m him
Everybody knows I’m him
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Everybody knows I’m him
got a black cat bone
I got a mojo too
I got the Johnny Conqueror root
He’s gonna mess with you
I’m gonna take all the women
Lead me by my hand
Then the world gonna know
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Because I’m him
Everybody knows I’m him
I’m the hoochie coochie man
Everybody knows I’m him
On the seventh hour
On the seventh day
On the seventh month
The seven doctors say
He was born for good luck
Just you wait and see
I got seven hundred dollars
Don’t you fool with me
©1957 Willie Dixon. All Rights Reserved.
BLUES ENOUGH
Released: 2011
Blues Enough, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains eleven new original songs. With the addition of the horn section, this opened up the band to a whole new group of fans!
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Blues Enough”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“…This album is just so much fun!” – AMERICAN BLUES SCENE
“Superb album!” – LE CRI DU COYOTE (FRANCE)
LYRICS
Okay, so I got shanghai’d into judging a “King Of The Blues” contest. I was given a list of qualities to check off – ability, presence, originality, versatility, and there, at the end of the page. In capital letters. Bolded (sorry Arlo, couldn’t resist). Question 5 – Blues Content.
Is it blues enough for you?
The criteria sheet must have been written by a frustrated music critic…
Got a black cat bone
Got a mojo in my hand
Got a black cat bone
Got a mojo in my hand
Got the blues so bad
I can hardly even stand
(Chorus)
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it do enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it make the score
Do you want some more
Is that blues enough for ya?
No time to play
‘Cause I work my self to death
No time to play
‘Cause I work my self to death
And I’m running so fast
I can’t ever catch my breath
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it do enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it make the score
Do you want some more
Is that blues enough for ya?
Hard hard times
Don’t know what I’m going through
Hard hard times
Don’t know what I’m going through
Slept on the cold hard ground
By the age of 22
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it do enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it make the score
Do you want some more
Is that blues enough for ya?
Do I show enough pain
Do I bend the strings right
Is the bass too loose
Are the drums too tight?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it do enough for ya?
Is that blues enough for ya?
Does it make the score
Do you want some more
Is that blues enough for ya?
©2011 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Sam “The Bluzman” Taylor was a beloved figure, not only on the New York blues scene, but around the world. He was generous with his time in teaching young musicians the ins and outs of the blues, and was a tireless entertainer.
Towards the end of his life, he kept performing. Often racked with pain, barely able to stand, he would come out on stage and play with the same energy and vitality that he always did – only his band knew how seriously ill he really was.
He was, and is, an inspiration to all performers of every style. The audience always deserves the best, and Sam always gave it to them.
When the crowd would start to cheer
That’s the Bluzman
When the music filled your ears
That’s the Bluzman
When your troubles left awhile
And everyone would start to smile
And you just couldn’t help but clap your hands
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
Oh the magic he would use
Then he’d tell you, “That’s the blues”
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
With his cap and his guitar
That’s the blues, man
Kept us yellin’ from the bar
“That’s the Bluzman”
Tell me, how can you feel down
When the Bluzman came to town
And he’d smile as he came on with the band
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
Oh the magic he would use
Then he’d tell you, “That’s the blues”
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
Now when things don’t look so bad
That’s the Bluzman
And through it all, you’re feeling glad
That’s the Bluzman
And the band begins to cook
You might want to take a look
‘Cause you just might see a glow up on the stand
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
Oh the magic he would use
Then he’d tell you, “That’s the blues”
Do your best each time you try
Or Sam be givin’ you the eye
When pain is more than you can stand
Just take your cue from Sam
That was Sam Sam Sam the Bluzman
©2010 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Things going wrong there, Sparky? Ever think you might be making the same mistakes over and over?
Welcome to the club. But a bartender told me “Look, you don’t build a house on sand. You don’t tie a stone to a kite. If you want to catch fish, you got to go fishing where the fish are!”
Well I was feeling down cause I was broke again
I took a look around to figure where I’ve been
I read some magazines, I watch some interviews
And then my old bartender says “Son,
What you got to do”
Is go fishing where the fish are
Just go fishing where the fish are
Why do you drop your pole
Into an empty hole
Just go fishing where the fish are
You may be looking for money, you may be looking for fame
But you’re trying to get uptown on a downtown train
Now you’ve got the experience, and you’ve got all the facts
But you don’t seem to notice that you’re on the wrong track
Is go fishing where the fish are
Just go fishing where the fish are
Why do you drop your pole
Into an empty hole
Just go fishing where the fish are
Fishing where the fish are
Fishing where the fish are
Fishing where the fish are
Fishing where the fish are
Oh, oh,
Fishing where the fish are
You’ve been running and racing, you’ve been tearing around
And you don’t stop to notice if your feet on the ground
You’ve watching the sky studyin’ every cloud
But what you really want is lying right on the ground
Just go fishing where the fish are
Just go fishing where the fish are
Why do you drop your pole
Into an empty hole
Just go fishing where the fish are
©2010 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
There are a few definitions of “Backhand Drive”.
Get your mind out of the gutter – we’re using up all the room there already.
My baby said she loves that backhand drive
My baby said she loves that backhand drive
When she shifts I’m bound to lose my mind
She never keeps me waiting at the gate
She never keeps me waiting at the gate
My baby makes old Lazarus stand up straight
She shift it left
She shift it right
She drives all day
And rolls all night
My baby said she loves that backhand drive
When she shifts I’m bound to lose my mind
She rides it fast
She rides it slow
Any way I want to go
My baby said she loves that backhand drive
When she shifts I’m glad to be alive
©2011 by Russell Alexander /All Rights Reserved.
If you’ve ever had your heart broken, you know that it’s not just your heart. It feels like every part of you is shattered.
There were so many times
I held you
And you told me things were alright
But when you thought
I was sleeping
I’d hear you crying in the night
It’s not just my heart
That’s broken
It’s every piece of me
It’s not just my heart
That’s broken
I fell apart
When you walked out on me
I know you tried
You tried to love me
And I know that I
Was hard to understand
I didn’t show
How much I really needed you
Until you had to find another man
It’s not just my heart…
I hope you found someone
To make you happy
I wish that I had been that man
I ever find another love like you gave me
I’ll never lose that love again
It’s not just my heart…
©2011 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
Is it the way she moves? The way she talks? The way she smiles?
It’s everything she does…
Baby love the way you move
Baby love the way you move
When I see you walk
I want to have a talk with you (Wanna sit and talk with you)
Everything you do
Makes me fall in love with you
Baby love the way you sigh
Baby love the way you sigh
When you lick your lips it
Makes me want to kiss them dry
Everything you do
Makes me fall in love with you
Baby love to hold your hand
Baby love to hold your hand
When I feel your touch it
Thrills me just too much to stand
Everything you do
Makes me fall in love with you
Baby let your hair hang down
Baby let your hair hang down
Getting close to midnight
Time to let your love light out
Everything you do
Makes me fall in love with you
Everything you do
Crazy deep in love with you
©2011 by Russell Alexander, All Rights Reserved.
The lost people – they’re all around us. Yes, we’ve got problems – not enough money to pay the bills, lousy job, maybe nobody to love. But come with me and meet your neighbors on the streets of downtown.
Take a look at Tommy
On the empty sidewalk
Picking up bottles for a five cent win
His suit is ragged
His hair is shaggy
You’d never know what a fine man he’s been
Now you tell me you got nobody
And you’re looking for a sign
Come and take a walk with me
Through the streets of downtown
And I’ll show you
Some old friends of mine
Her name is Sandy
But she doesn’t know it
She won’t answer if you call out loud
She screams with laughter
She cries with anger
Picks up her shopping bags and gets lost in the crowd
There’s nameless people
In the heart of downtown
Was somebody’s lover, was somebody’s child
In the heat of summer
In the cold of winter
You pass right by them
But can you spare a dime?
There sits Leon
By the VA Center
He fought for his country
Left his soul in Vietnam
He thoughts are shaky
His limbs are aching
They don’t see the hero
Just another shabby man
©2011 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
She drives you crazy. His family is nuts. She doesn’t appreciate the finer points of beer. He doesn’t know how to take it easy.
But life’s too short to not love you.
I say red and you say black
I go forward and you step back
You say stop if I say go
You’re quick to say what I don’t know
I go left and you go right
I like day and you like night
If we can disagree we do
But life’s too short to not love you
I speed up and you slow down
I pass through, you go around
I drink beer and you like wine
We still have a crazy time
You like fancy, I like plain
I think your family’s are all insane
No matter what I think it’s true
Life’s too short to not love you
Can it work, do you suppose?
You got a ring right through my nose
You get mad and I walk out
From blocks away I hear you shout
I’m always right, I’m always wrong
You tell me just to go along
And still it’s just my point of view
Life’s too short to not love you
©2011 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
We may not look it, but we’re a pretty classy bunch. No more hanging out in the dives with 25 cent “leftover drink” specials, and the mystery meat free lunches.
Nope, we’re moving on up. We’re hanging out with a better class of bums.
I won’t be down at Lonnie’s
Won’t walk through Harry’s door
All the dives and sleazy bars
Won’t see me no more
I’m with a better class of bums
I drink a fancy kind of booze
I’m smoking big cigars
And drive expensive cars
But I still can’t get to you
The girls way down on Main Street
Will have to do without
They’ll have to find some other guy
‘Cause they won’t see me about
I’m with a better class of bums
Sammy at the news stand
The tears run from his eyes
He’s got piles of trashy magazines
‘Cause I only buy the Times
I’m with a better class of bums
I met up with your mama
I swept her off her feet
Your papa likes to call me Son
And your sister says I’m sweet
I’m with a better class of bums
How can I impress you
What else can I do?
I’ve shaved and bathed and dressed so fine
With patent leather shoes
I’m with a better class of bums
© 2011 by Russell Alexander. All Rights Reserved.
You lost her. Sure, you had your reasons. Mainly, the reason is that you’re an idiot. If you were deaf, dumb and blind at least you’d have an excuse…
If the sun
Had gone away
If after all this time
There was nothing left to say
I would beg your pardon
You would vindicate
But I must have been
Deaf, dumb and blind
If I couldn’t hear
The words you said
If I was all alone
Trapped inside my head
I could defend myself
Wouldn’t have to beg
But I must have been
Deaf, dumb and blind
But my words are spoken
The light hurts me so
My ears hear you tell me
Pack up and go
If my days
Were at an end
And I was leaving
Without a love or friend
I could take it
But don’t make me face again
That I must have been
Deaf, dumb and blind
©2011 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
There’s an old, uniquely American boast: “I live on Tough Street. The further up the street you go, the tougher the people get. I live in the last house.”
Had to write a song about that.
Tough
You think you know about tough
Tough
You think you know about tough
I live on Tough Street
The meanest place you’ll find
The deeper you go
The tougher they grow
The very last house is mine
Bad
You think you’re so bad
Bad
You think you’re so bad
I live on Tough Street
The meanest place you’ll find
The deeper you go
The tougher they grow
The very last house is mine
Lots of hard men and
Lots of hard times
And lots of hard faces there
In a dead end house
On that dead end street
I’m the one without a care
Hurt
You think you know about hurt
Hurt
You think you know about hurt
I live on Tough Street
The meanest place you’ll find
The deeper you go
The tougher they grow
The very last house is mine
©2011 Russell Alexander. All Rights Reserved.
PALE RIDER
Released: 2008
Pale Rider, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains twelve new original songs. This is the CD that got the band into touring Europe!
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Pale Rider”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“Strong singing, a great sounding recording and precision playing!” – BLUES REVUE
“Biting leads, tasteful organ, great slide – a fine vocalist with impressive writing. Recommended!” – BLUES IN THE NORTHWEST (UK)
LYRICS
Sooner or later, we’ll play the blues you need
You got your How Long Blues
Blues In The Night
Blues when you’re happy
Blues when you fight
Sit back, and get yourself loose
Before this night is done
We’re gonna play Your Blues
You say you’re man’s no good
Or your woman let you down
Or you got the best baby in the whole damn town
Sit back, and get yourself loose
Before this night is done
We’re gonna play Your Blues
Maybe you hit the numbers
Or the rent is overdue
If times are good
Or times are hard
The blues is always true
So let the Good Times Roll
Be a real Soul Man
‘Cause Death Don’t Have No Mercy in this land
Sit back
And get yourself loose
Before this night is done
We’re gonna play Your Blues
©2008 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
You never know who’s calling – so don’t pick up that phone
Do you remember baby
When Grumman closed its doors
Man stood at the gatehouse
Said you can’t work here no more
That’s trouble
Every place you find
Don’t you take that call
Might be trouble on the line
Mailbox full of letters
You can just get by
One is from the IRS
And then you start to cry
That’s trouble
Every place you find
Don’t you take that call
Might be trouble on the line
Meet up with your baby
Go out for a walk
She says “listen, honey
I think we need to talk”
That’s trouble
Every place you find
Don’t you take that call
Might be trouble on the line
Workin’ like the devil
Layoffs come around
You collect your paycheck
A note is sticking out
That’s trouble
Every place you find
Don’t you take that call
Might be trouble on the line
©2008 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Can you outrun the blues?
Something’s knockin’ at the door
Saw you hanging round before
Poor boy blues, you’re comin’ back for more
Well you ain’t gonna find me here
I’m heading out now the coast is clear
I’ll burn the trail, I’ll light the match
The blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
Woke up feelin’ pretty fine
She never crossed my mind
But I was
Drinking gin by half past nine
Well it’s tearin’ through my heart
I thought we could never part
I can hear it searching, I can hear it scratch
But the blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
Don’t you tell me that you reap what you sow
I don’t need a lecture on the way to go
All I want is something I can put in gear
So I won’t be around when the blues gets here
Don’t care where I have to go
Siberia or Mexico
Down in Lousiana, or out in Idaho
I’m just gonna blend with the crowd
Keep on movin’, don’t get too loud
Lock the door behind me, fasten the latch
Because the blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
©2006 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
We do dumb things when we’re young, don’t we?
I was running with the
Red Hook crew
Had no money not a thing to do
I was running
With the Red Hook crew
No job no money not a thing to do
Found a store, it was an
Easy hit
Back street alley where the
Lamps weren’t lit
Empty store it was
Such an easy hit
Back street alley where the
Lamps weren’t even lit
Broke the window and we
Crawled on through
Guard surprised us with his 22
Broke the window
And we crawled on through
Guard surprised with his little popgun 22
Swung my crowbar and I
Hit his head
Gave a cry and then he
Fell down dead
Took my crowbar
Swung and hit his head
He gave a cry then he
Fell down stone cold dead
Little Johnny cried “What have you done?
Hear those sirens? We got to run”
Little Johnny cried “Lord, what have you done?
Sirens wailing, oh we got to run”
They got Frankie Daly, they got
Joe Magee, they got
Little Johnny but they
Ain’t got me
Got Frankie Daly, got old
Joe Magee
Got Little Johnny but
So far, they ain’t got me
Goodbye Red Hook, I’m
Western bound
Deep in Texas where I
Won’t be found
Goodbye Red Hook, I’m
Western bound
Deep in Texas where I
Won’t be found
©2006 by Russell Alexander /All Rights Reserved.
You’ve probably met someone like this:
The self-appointed guardian of the blues, who can’t wait to tell
you which group is a REAL blues group, or which song
is a REAL blues song. And they really know – they’ve read all the books
on the blues, so they’re experts.
Sure they are.
I don’t know ’bout nutrition
I eat what I can find
A fancy dish is day old fish
And a bottle of $5 wine
I don’t have education
About the things that count
Like how to steal from Peter
When the bills begin to mount
I don’t know ’bout division
Except for me and you
But I
I know about the blues
I know about depression
The blues on overdrive
You sleep for 18 hours
Then take a nap for 5
I don’t say what I’m thinkin’
‘Cause that would start a row
I clench my teeth together
And hold my temper down
I look out at the highway
And wonder what to do
But I
I know about the blues
I know how the sun can shine so bright
But in my heart it’s as black as night
The joy of laughter is all around
But ’till she’s back there’s not a sound
I don’t say “I done seen her”
I don’t say “Lawdy Lord”
I don’t say “Got me some good thangs”
Never slept in a hollow log
But I come from New York City
Where the streets are smoke and steam
Where the homeless sleep in subways
And above the limos gleam
And I’ve seen my share of trouble
And I’ve paid my share of dues
I know
I know about the blues
You’ve seen your share of troubles
And you’ve paid your share of dues
And you know, you know about the blues
We’ve all seen our share of troubles
And we’ve paid our share of dues
And we know, we know about the blues
©2006 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
This is my love song to my wife. Yeah, maybe it doesn’t read like a love song right off, but read it through a couple of times and you’ll see what I mean…
Honey won’t you tell me
What I have to do
I’ve tried everything that I know how
To prove my love for you
I gladly bit the apple
While burning with desire
Now that the smoke is clearing away
It’s out of the frying pan
And into the fire
Wo, wo, what do I know?
I’ve got my hat in my hand
Hey, hey, everyone say
What a lucky guy, he’s a blessed man
Sometimes you have nightmares
Sometimes I have dreams
And we might both be wide awake
So who knows what that means
If you must accuse me
Then charge me with a crime
I don’t mind a kangaroo court
‘Cause I’ve already done my time
Wo, wo, what do I know?
I’ve got my hat in my hand
Hey, hey, everyone say
What a lucky guy, he’s a blessed man
You spend all my money
Then you spend some more
Saying that you do without
Because we’re too damn poor
I will give you diamonds
Someday, when I can
But for now, honey all you’ll get
Is the heart of a blessed man
Wo, wo, what do I know?
I’ve got my hat in my hand
Hey, hey, everyone say
What a lucky guy, he’s a blessed man
Wo, wo, what do I know?
I’ve got my heart in your hand
Hey, hey, everyone say
What a lucky guy, I’m a blessed man
©2008 by Russell Alexander, All Rights Reserved.
We were down in New Orleans about a year before Katrina came to visit. It’s a beautiful city, with warm and wonderful people – and lots to drink! But it’s also a city of magic – light and dark.
People talk about a ghost or a haint
Slap your leathers on, you’re bound to faint
Goober dust is gonna show you something there ain’t
When Miss Catherine comes to town
They say she rules down in New Orleans
Lovers come in an endless stream
In a magic city, they call her the Queen
When Miss Catherine comes to town
Because her eyes are endless silence
And her skin is soft and brown
There’s a line of men with their souls torn out
When Miss Catherine comes to town
They say her house is filled with gold
A Hand of Glory in a velvet roll
Some folks say Miss Catherine don’t appear to grow old
When Miss Catherine comes to town
She’s got potions for love, potions for hate
She got Johnny Cockeroo to set you straight
You can walk the swamp to see her, but most folks wait
‘Till Miss Catherine comes to town
Because her eyes are endless silence
And her skin is soft and brown
There’s a line of men with their hearts torn out
When Miss Catherine comes to town
I used to love her, and she loved me
But I was foolish with my company
Lord, she left me shattered as a man can be
When Miss Catherine came to town
A woman born with a veil on her face
Won’t take the trouble to bear a disgrace
Learn from this poor wretch who wears a thorny crown
When Miss Catherine comes to town
©2008 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
A friend of ours is a bounty hunter. He’s actually a bail bondsman, and became a bounty hunter out of necessity. HBO made a series about him called “Family Bonds”, which ran for a couple of seasons. I wrote this song, hoping they would use it as a theme. HBO decided to go with an AC/DC song – but I think this one is pretty cool…
I’m comin’ for you (2x)
You shouldn’t have run
Or did the things you done
I’m comin’ for you
You shouldn’t have lied (3x)
And now I’ll make you cry
I’m comin’ for you
You’re a bad, bad man (3x)
But not as bad as I am
I’m comin’ for you
You never should have run (3x)
Baby, here I come
I’m comin’ for you
I’m knockin’ down your door (3x)
Better hit the floor
I’m comin’ for you
You got a knife and gun (3x)
Now that’s what I call fun
I’m comin’ for you
I’m comin’ for you (3x)
There’s nothing you can do
I’m comin’ for you
©2008 Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved
Rappers think they know how to boast. Well, nobody beats the blues for boasting. Can any rapper top “I can heal the sick, I can raise the dead” from “Seventh Son”? On this tune, I’m showing off a little old fashioned loud mouth bluster.
When I
Speak, the thunder stops rolling
My voice knocks it out of the sky
When I’m thirsty, I reach up
And grab a cloud
And squeeze it till it’s dry
I’m Calamity’s Child
I’m Calamity’s Child
Don’t mess with me
Don’t mess with Calamity’s Child
I have 15 snakes for breakfast
Washed down with a barrel of gin
I can split a rock just by staring hard
Write a curse on the head of a pin
I’m Calamity’s Child
I’m Calamity’s Child
Don’t mess with me
Don’t mess with Calamity’s Child
Well my mama is Destruction
And Sin is my daddy’s name
I turn a good man’s heart to stone
Bring a good woman down to shame
I’m Calamity’s Child
I’m Calamity’s Child
Don’t mess with me
Don’t mess with Calamity’s Child
Playin’ cards with the devil at midnight
And I win with a dead man’s hand
Took the gold from the teeth of a sleepin’ judge
Crying “Catch me if you can”
I’m Calamity’s Child
I’m Calamity’s Child
Don’t mess with me
Don’t mess with Calamity’s Child
© 2008 by Russell Alexander. All Rights Reserved.
Things are pretty tough right now. But as bad as it gets, sometimes you just have to remember – things will get better. This too shall pass.
Sometimes when you’re troubled
And hope is nowhere to be found
Everytime you get back up
Something comes and knocks you down
Well I’ve been there
And I can tell you
That the bad times never last
Well the sun comes up
It’ll be alright
And this too shall pass
Sometimes when your heart breaks
And your world has turned to gray
And it’s just too hard to get up
And face another day
Well I’ve been there
And I can tell you
That the bad times never last
Well the sun comes up
It’ll be alright
And this too shall pass
Sometimes things get desperate
And all your plans fall through
And you’re praying for a rainbow
But the sky is never blue
Well I’ve been there
And I can tell you
That the bad times never last
Well you know the sun comes up
It’ll be alright
And this too shall pass
©2008 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
Taken enough crap? They say “Live Free Or Die”. Come ride into the night with me.
Don’t know where I’m heading
I just got to go
Wasted half a lifetime
Waiting by the door
Oh, they say live free or die
Now it’s just the moon and me
Pale Rider
Ride across the nation
Everywhere I see
Lives of desperation
How’d it come to be?
Oh, they say live free or die
Now it’s just the moon and me
Pale Rider
Do you go in circles
Looking for a sign
Won’t you travel with me
Leave it all behind
Oh, they say live free or die
Now it’s just the moon and me
Pale Rider
©2008 by Russell Alexander / All Rights Reserved.
LIVE AT THE STONYBROOK UNIVERSITY
Released: 2008
Live At Stonybrook University, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains ten original songs and one cover of John Lee Hooker’s classic “Boom Boom”. A live concert featuring the original configuration of guitar, keys, bass and drums, this is a snapshot in time of a live performance!
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Live At Stonybrook University”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“The kind of live CD which makes you think: wish I had been there!”
– BOBTJE BLUES
LYRICS
A local bar had a scrolling marquee sign that said “It ain’t a black thing. It ain’t a white thing. It’s a green thing. Don’t ask for credit.” Pretty much sums it up.
It ain’t about black depression
It ain’t about sunny hues
It ain’t about black or white or red
It ain’t about singing the blues
It’s a green thing
It ain’t about purple passion
It ain’t about jealous rage
It ain’t about love, or even hate
Or standing here on the stage
It’s a green thing
Don’t bother me with your theories
Don’t trouble me with your facts
I’m just trying to pay my bills
Before they come and take it all back
It’s a green thing
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Harlem is a beautiful place, but it can be like the end of the world. When it rains, it can clear the air or it can seem like heaven is crying. Can you capture that in a song?
It’s raining up in Harlem
And I’m just trying to make a call
It’s raining up in Harlem
And I’m just trying to make a call
But that phone just keeps on ringing
There ain’t no response at all
I said I’d call at seven
Now I’m standing in the rain
I said I’d call at seven
Now I’m standing in the rain
If I can’t reach my baby
The sun won’t never shine again
I’m going to leave this cold, cold city
And I’m going home to stay
I’m going to leave this cold, cold city
And I’m going home to stay
I’ve just got to tell my baby
My baby don’t know that I
Changed my evil ways
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
When a relationship is almost at the critical mass point, there should be some kind of buzzer to let you know. Maybe people can play this song, as a not too subtle hint.
This is your two minute warning
You’re very nearly out of time
You want some love and compassion
You’ve taken nearly all of mine
This is a tough situation
‘Cause I’ll love you till the day I die
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
This is last chance condition
You can’t expect that I’ll hold on
T’ve tried to keep the attraction
But you’ve beat it ’till it’s almost gone
This is a bad situation
‘Cause a broken heart can never mend
This is your two minute warning
Before the end
When it all began, I was under a spell
Now I can’t understand, how it started so well
Baby, whatever happened to us?
This is a hard conversation
But it’s one we should have had before
It seems like harsh confrontation
Is all we ever have anymore
Say you’ll work with me baby
Tell me that you’re gonna try
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Recorded in 1961, this quickly became a blues standard – but pop bands played it, too! A straight forward version of the classic, recorded live at Stonybrook University.
Boom boom boom boom
Gonna shoot you right down
Take you in my arms
I’m in love with you
Love that is true
Boom boom boom boom
I like the way you walk
I like the way you talk
When you walk that walk
And you talk that talk
You knock me out
Right off my feet
I need you now
I mean right now
I don’t mean tomorrow
I mean right now
Come on, come on
Come on and shake it up
Come on and shake (shake it baby)
Shake it up baby (shake it baby)
You drive me crazy (shake it baby)
Shake it up baby (shake it baby)
Come on, come on (shake it baby)
Yeah, yeah
©1961 John Lee Hooker/All Rights Reserved
I got the name “Slither” from the title of a CD by my good friend, Jim Moran. I thought, “What a great title! I should write a song about that!”
And poof! Fifteen beers later, I had scribbled this on a soggy bar napkin. She must have been pretty good looking, or maybe she was never even there…
You don’t know me but I’ve been
Watchin’ you, that
Fool you’re with
He ain’t got a clue
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby I can slither in
He don’t love you, baby
He don’t care
He thinks love is just a
One night affair
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby I can slither in
(bridge)
I can slip and I can slide
I can shake it from side to side
I can take all your grief and pain
And bring you someplace you ain’t never been
I can make you sweat, I can
Make you moan,
You’re never gonna want to go back home
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby, I can slither in
I can slip and I can slide
I can shake it from side to side
I can take all your grief and pain
And bring you someplace you ain’t never been
I can make you scream, I can
Make you sigh, I can
Make you love me till the day we die
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby, I can slither in
Spoken:
Find a nice warm spot, where I can slither…
NO, it’s not cold and slimy!
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Okay, so I have no steady income. Or a racy car. Or fine jewelry. Or any rhythm on the dance floor. But take it from me, guys like me are pretty hard to find. Just ask the police.
Well, it ain’t fair,
And it ain’t right
You’ve been lookin’ ’round
And I’m in plain sight
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
Well I’m not too fat
And I’m not too thin
And I’m very convenient
I just plug right in
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
I don’t drink
And I don’t shout
I bring money in
And take the garbage out
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
Your mama won’t bug me
When she comes around
And I leave the seat
In the bathroom down
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
My head and hips
Are built for fun
And I know just how
To make your motor run
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
©2002 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Long title! The holidays can be the worst time of all, or the best. I hope this shows it. Man, did Johnny and I fight over the phrasing on this guitar solo…
Don’t worry about me
‘Cause man, I’m doing fine
I got some luncheon meat
And some Mad Dog wine
Yeah I’m making merry, with my new friend
Who’s come around to stay
I’ll be sharing this Christmas with the blues
I was mistaken
To treat you so bad
You know your worst
Was the best I ever had
But I’m movin’ on, I’m standin’ tall
And I’m gonna have a ball
‘Cause I’ll be sharing this Christmas with the blues
Got me a Christmas tree from the five and dime
I’ve got my plans all made, we’re gonna have a time
On Christmas morning, wonder if you’ll be
Holding onto someone else and wishing it was me
Come home baby,
I know that I was wrong
I’ll be a different man
Before New Year’s comes along
Please forgive me, I’m sorry
I’ll do anything you say
Don’t want to be sharing this Christmas with the blues
My plastic fireplace is lighting up the room
The hot plate’s sizzling, the Spam is cooking soon
You know it’s party time, Santa’s on his way
But what I really want, he won’t have on his sleigh
Come home baby,
I know that I was wrong
I’ll be a different man
Before New Year’s comes along
Please forgive me, I’m sorry
I’ll do anything you say
Don’t want to be sharing this Christmas with the blues
© 2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Can you outrun the blues?
Something’s knockin’ at the door
Saw you hanging round before
Poor boy blues, you’re comin’ back for more
Well you ain’t gonna find me here
I’m heading out now the coast is clear
I’ll burn the trail, I’ll light the match
The blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
Woke up feelin’ pretty fine
She never crossed my mind
But I was
Drinking gin by half past nine
Well it’s tearin’ through my heart
I thought we could never part
I can hear it searching, I can hear it scratch
But the blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
Don’t you tell me that you reap what you sow
I don’t need a lecture on the way to go
All I want is something I can put in gear
So I won’t be around when the blues gets here
Don’t care where I have to go
Siberia or Mexico
Down in Lousiana, or out in Idaho
I’m just gonna blend with the crowd
Keep on movin’, don’t get too loud
Lock the door behind me, fasten the latch
Because the blues can’t hit what the blues can’t catch
©2006 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
We do dumb things when we’re young, don’t we?
I was running with the
Red Hook crew
Had no money not a thing to do
I was running
With the Red Hook crew
No job no money not a thing to do
Found a store, it was an
Easy hit
Back street alley where the
Lamps weren’t lit
Empty store it was
Such an easy hit
Back street alley where the
Lamps weren’t even lit
Broke the window and we
Crawled on through
Guard surprised us with his 22
Broke the window
And we crawled on through
Guard surprised with his little popgun 22
Swung my crowbar and I
Hit his head
Gave a cry and then he
Fell down dead
Took my crowbar
Swung and hit his head
He gave a cry then he
Fell down stone cold dead
Little Johnny cried “What have you done?
Hear those sirens? We got to run”
Little Johnny cried “Lord, what have you done?
Sirens wailing, oh we got to run”
They got Frankie Daly, they got
Joe Magee, they got
Little Johnny but they
Ain’t got me
Got Frankie Daly, got old
Joe Magee
Got Little Johnny but
So far, they ain’t got me
Goodbye Red Hook, I’m
Western bound
Deep in Texas where I
Won’t be found
Goodbye Red Hook, I’m
Western bound
Deep in Texas where I
Won’t be found
©2006 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
You’ve probably met someone like this:
The self-appointed guardian of the blues, who can’t wait to tell
you which group is a REAL blues group, or which song
is a REAL blues song. And they really know – they’ve read all the books
on the blues, so they’re experts.
Sure they are.
I don’t know ’bout nutrition
I eat what I can find
A fancy dish is day old fish
And a bottle of $5 wine
I don’t have education
About the things that count
Like how to steal from Peter
When the bills begin to mount
I don’t know ’bout division
Except for me and you
But I
I know about the blues
I know about depression
The blues on overdrive
You sleep for 18 hours
Then take a nap for 5
I don’t say what I’m thinkin’
‘Cause that would start a row
I clench my teeth together
And hold my temper down
I look out at the highway
And wonder what to do
But I
I know about the blues
I know how the sun can shine so bright
But in my heart it’s as black as night
The joy of laughter is all around
But ’till she’s back there’s not a sound
I don’t say “I done seen her”
I don’t say “Lawdy Lord”
I don’t say “Got me some good thangs”
Never slept in a hollow log
But I come from New York City
Where the streets are smoke and steam
Where the homeless sleep in subways
And above the limos gleam
And I’ve seen my share of trouble
And I’ve paid my share of dues
I know
I know about the blues
You’ve seen your share of troubles
And you’ve paid your share of dues
And you know, you know about the blues
We’ve all seen our share of troubles
And we’ve paid our share of dues
And we know, we know about the blues
©2006 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Oh yeah! Sort of a “Matchbox” feel, but what a great groove! Sing it out for someone you used to love!
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I just can’t stay here anymore
You used to be so nice
You used to love me all the time
You used to be so nice
You used to love me all the time
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I’ve got to find some peace of mind
You know I worked so hard
I try to keep you satisfied
You know I worked so hard
I try to keep you satisfied
Well you’re a mean mistreater
These are the last tears that I cried
You know I sure do love you
You got a spell that I can’t fight
You know I sure do love you
You got a spell that I can’t fight
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I need someone to treat me right
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I just can’t stay here anymore
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
ANGEL IN THE SHADOWS
Released: 2003
Angel In The Shadows, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains 14 original songs. This 14 song collection opened the doors for Hitman to start touring the UK!
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Angel In The Shadows”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“Gritty blues and electrifying hot riffs!” – LA HORA DEL BLUES
“He delivers the goods. An excellent release!” – LI BLUES SOCIETY
LYRICS
I got the name “Slither” from the title of a CD by my good friend, Jim Moran. I thought, “What a great title! I should write a song about that!”And poof! Fifteen beers later, I had scribbled this on a soggy bar napkin. She must have been pretty good looking, or maybe she was never even there…
You don’t know me but I’ve been
Watchin’ you, that
Fool you’re with
He ain’t got a clue
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby I can slither in
He don’t love you, baby
He don’t care
He thinks love is just a
One night affair
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby I can slither in
(bridge)
I can slip and I can slide
I can shake it from side to side
I can take all your grief and pain
And bring you someplace you ain’t never been
I can make you sweat, I can
Make you moan,
You’re never gonna want to go back home
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby, I can slither in
I can slip and I can slide
I can shake it from side to side
I can take all your grief and pain
And bring you someplace you ain’t never been
I can make you scream, I can
Make you sigh, I can
Make you love me till the day we die
I shiver, I just can’t wait to begin
When that snake moves out, baby, I can slither in
Spoken:
Find a nice warm spot, where I can slither…
NO, it’s not cold and slimy!
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Okay, so I have no steady income. Or a racy car. Or fine jewelry. Or any rhythm on the dance floor. But take it from me, guys like me are pretty hard to find. Just ask the police.
Well it don’t seem fair,
And it don’t seem right
You’ve been lookin’ ’round
And I’m in plain sight
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
Well I’m not too fat
And I’m not too thin
And I’m very convenient
I just plug right in
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
I don’t drink too much
I don’t curse and shout
I bring money in
And take the garbage out
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
Your mama won’t bug me
When she comes around
And I leave the seat
In the bathroom down
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
My head and hips
Are built for fun
And I know just how
To make your motor run
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Don’t you wait too long
I’m a fine piece of merchandise
Get me before I’m gone
Spoken:
This is a limited time offer – you don’t find guys like me
Walkin’ the street every day –
(mumbled) we usually walk at night
Hey! Come back here! You’ll regret it!
There are people waitin’ in line for me!
(mumbled) …And if any of them catch me, I’m in trouble…
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
If you’re lucky, you find someone like this in your life.
I’ve been awake too many nights
Waiting for sleep to overtake me
Carried my load down that long winding road
The one that I swore wouldn’t break me
Time is going faster
Days slipping by
She’s here, and still I don’t know why
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
I spend my days with a smile on my face
Oh, I keep my friends amused
But late at night, all the memories crowd back in
Of people, using and misused
And yes, I’ve been forsaken
And yes, I’ve been alone
And looking for a light to guide me home
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
And if confusion follows me
And debt and worry keep me company
When nobody knows the pain inside of me
She knows
And when I think about it
The way things might have been
Mistakes made, again and again and again
She’s my Angel in the Shadows
My hero on the run
Keeps me holding on
When all the hope is gone
I got caught up in the riptide
I was lost out at sea
She’s the Angel in the Shadows for me
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Give an inch, somebody might take a mile. Until you have a nice, calm discussion about things…
Surprise, my baby, I know you been around (2x)
You’ve had it free and easy I’m gonna put the hammer down
Seems you just come home, then you’re going out again (2x)
Don’t you try and kiss me, I don’t know where those lips have been
Friends have been talkin’, you’ve been seen all over town (2x)
Well the good times are over I’m gonna put the hammer down
Don’t you make excuses, you know I gave you everything (2x)
Don’t you hear that hammer whistle? Don’t you hear that hammer sing?
Well I may be a fool, but don’t you think that I’m blind (2x)
Gonna bring that hammer down, Lord, I’m gonna take what’s mine
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
A little indulgence here – some autobiographical stuff. And it reflects the old saying: for every middle aged person looking in the mirror, there’s a younger person inside wondering what the hell happened and who that balding stranger is.
I’ve been smoking marijuana, drinking all night long
I’ve been smoking marijuana, drinking all night long
I’ve been thinking ’bout the old days, wonder where they’ve gone
Well I used to be trouble, young men step away
Well I used to be trouble, young men step away
A straight edged razor, they do what I say
Last night I was dreaming, blood was on the ground
Last night I was dreaming, blood was on the ground
I was running for the future, but the past got to drag me down
I’ve been smoking marijuana, drinking all night long
I’ve been smoking marijuana, drinking all night long
I’ve been thinking ’bout the old days, wonder where I’ve gone
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
I originally had this with a “Done Somebody Wrong” beat. Richard Crooks, at Johnny Gale’s suggestion, came up with this incredible feel. That’s what happens when you use great players, right?
Sometimes I feel
Like I’m trying to move a mountain
Yes I’m trying to move a mountain
Oh, with a teaspoon
Sometimes I feel
Like I’m trying to cross the river
Yes I’m trying to cross the river
Oh, in a monsoon
But the thing that keeps me right
Is the feeling every night
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
Sometimes I feel
Like I’m tying up a tiger
Yes I’m tying up a tiger
With piece of string
Sometimes I feel
I’m supposed to know the answer
Yes, to know every answer
And I don’t know a thing
But you know what keeps me right
Is the feeling every night
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
Sometimes I feel
Like I’m going down the highway
Yes I’m going down the highway
But it’s way too fast
Sometimes I feel
Like I can’t find a reason
No, I can’t find a reason
When things won’t last
But the thing that keeps me right
Is the feeling every night
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
I know that you love me
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Long title! The holidays can be the worst time of all, or the best. I hope this shows it. Man, did Johnny and I fight over the phrasing on this guitar solo…
Don’t worry about me
‘Cause man, I’m doing fine
I got some luncheon meat
And some Mad Dog wine
Yeah I’m making merry, with my new friend
Who’s come around to stay
I’ll be sharing this Christmas with the blues
I was mistaken
To treat you so bad
You know your worst
Was the best I ever had
But I’m movin’ on, I’m standin’ tall
And I’m gonna have a ball
‘Cause I’ll be sharing this Christmas with the blues
Got me a Christmas tree from the five and dime
I’ve got my plans all made, we’re gonna have a time
On Christmas morning, wonder if you’ll be
Holding onto someone else and wishing it was me
Come home baby,
I know that I was wrong
I’ll be a different man
Before New Year’s comes along
Please forgive me, I’m sorry
I’ll do anything you say
Don’t want to be sharing this Christmas with the blues
My plastic fireplace is lighting up the room
The hot plate’s sizzling, the Spam is cooking soon
You know it’s party time, Santa’s on his way
But what I really want, he won’t have on his sleigh
Come home baby,
I know that I was wrong
I’ll be a different man
Before New Year’s comes along
Please forgive me, I’m sorry
I’ll do anything you say
Don’t want to be sharing this Christmas with the blues
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
HEY! I’m not drunk – I’m still drinkin’. Ever had a drunk come up to you in a bar and tell you his life story? That might have been me.
Well it’s 2 a.m. at the bar again
I bet your wonderin’ where I’ve been
I met this girl up on the avenue
And she just reeled me in
She took all my time, and my money
And she left me yesterday
So you’ll excuse me, but I’ve got an awful lot to do
You see, I’m drinking my blues away
She never said she loved me
She sort of took what she could find
But she did some things I never even heard of
She almost knocked me blind
Now don’t worry, I’m not crazy
I knew it had to end some day
I’m an upright, respected invididual
So I’ll be drinking my blues away
Now I believe that she is
Gone for good
Her note said that she hoped I understood
‘ Cause fun is fun, but even good times end
And a lady knows that cash can be her only friend
So the guitars can start their laughing
And that old harp can take it home
I’m gonna drink to everybody’s health
Until I ruin my own
So bartender, pour me a double
I’ve found a place where I can stay
You see, I’ve thought it out, and planned it all very carefully
And I’m drinking my blues away
(Spoken)
You gonna finish that?
I love you guys – really. I mean it
That’s beautiful, jus’ beautiful
Do you guys play Freebird?
Now don’t expect me to weep and moan
And sit there waiting by the telephone
I know she’s never gonna make that call
Besides I tore the phone right off the wall
So the guitars can start their laughing
And that old harp can take it home
I’m gonna drink to everybody’s health
Until I ruin my own
So bartender, pour me a double
I’ve found a place where I can stay
You see, I’ve thought it out, and planned it all very carefully
And I’m drinking my blues away
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
No, this isn’t about a girl. This is about cocaine. Thanks to Johnny Gale for coming up with the spooky arrangement… By the way, that’s Johnny doing the back-up vocals on this.
Jump back man, because you might get burned
I’ve been out with her, I’ll tell you what I’ve learned
She’ll take your money, then she’ll take your soul
You’re twistin’ in the wind, baby
Can’t you hear the wind blow?
{Listen to the wind blow}
Jump back man, because she moves too fast
You ain’t the first and you won’t be last
She’ll bring you up, but then she’ll leave you low
You’re twistin’ in the wind, baby
Can’t you hear the wind blow?
{Listen to the wind blow}
Open up your eyes you know
She’ll fill you full of lies
She’ll say she loves you so
That’s when you’ll hear the wind blow
Jump back man, because I tell you true
There’s nothing else that she would rather do
She’s hot like fire, but there’s ice below
You’re twistin’ in the wind, baby
Can’t you hear the wind blow?
{Listen to the wind blow}
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Have you ever seen a beautiful girl, dressed to kill, who gave you a dirty look for staring at her? Did you wish you could express what it feels like? We’re all in that club.
Baby, are you hungry?
Well, I’ve got some chocolate right here
It’s thick and rich, it’ll scratch your itch
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
Baby, are you thirsty?
Well, I’ve got some soda right here
It’s bubbly and brown, it’ll cool you down
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
If a man’s just a man, well that’s all that I am
And girl, you’re keeping me on the run
When you bump and grind, I just lose my mind
But then you say it’s only in fun
Baby, are you tired?
Well, I’ve got a mattress right here
It’s comfy and soft, you can drift right off
But let me make it perfectly clear
You can’t have none
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want some
You can’t touch it
And you’re bad, bad, bad, ’cause you want it
And if you can’t understand
Well, that’s what it’s like to be a man
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Sometimes, I have to wonder – is anybody NOT living in a hurricane? Past the age of five, I mean.
Well the storm is breaking
It’s been raining since I don’t know when
There’s a black cloud
Leaves are tremblin’ in the wind
Beg, plead, on my knees
Something starts tearing like a killer disease
Poor boy, living in a hurricane
Just a poor boy, living in a hurricane
Poor boy, living in a hurricane
Try to leave but I just can’t go
Running like the devil but I’m moving too slow
Poor boy, living in a hurricane
The walls and flashing
Crashing before my eyes
There’s danger
Death on the wind tonight
Jump, shout “Who’s out there?”
Nothing but the screaming of the cold night air
Oh god, living in a hurricane
Just a poor boy, living in a hurricane
Poor boy, living in a hurricane
Try to leave but I just can’t go
Running like the devil but I’m moving too slow
Poor boy, living in a hurricane
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
When a relationship is almost at the critical mass point, there should be some kind of buzzer to let you know. Maybe people can play this song, as a not too subtle hint.
This is your two minute warning
You’re very nearly out of time
You want some love and compassion
You’ve taken nearly all of mine
This is a tough situation
‘Cause I’ll love you till the day I die
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
This is last chance condition
You can’t expect that I’ll hold on
I’ve tried to keep the attraction
But you’ve beat it ’till it’s almost gone
This is a bad situation
‘Cause a broken heart can never mend
This is your two minute warning
Before the end
When it all began, I was under a spell
Now I can’t understand, how it started so well
Baby, whatever happened to us?
This is a hard conversation
But it’s one we should have had before
It seems like harsh confrontation
Is all we ever have anymore
Say you’ll work with me baby
Tell me that you’re gonna try
This is your two minute warning
Before goodbye
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
I actually wrote this for another singer, but due to chemical interference he never sang it. But it’s pretty accurate, and I like it so much I really wanted to put it on this CD. For anybody who’s ever been there…
So here we are
At the end of our road
I’d like to smile but I’m
Feeling kind of low
I knew it couldn’t last
I caught you way too fast
On the rebound
Well he left you
And he broke your heart
I picked you up
Gave you a brand new start
And it may be wrong
But love don’t last too long)
On the rebound
I saw you weeping
And I knew that I had to take my chance
Some love is for keeping
And some is just a quick romance
You don’t love me,
That’s okay
It just makes it easier
For you to walk away
I’ll find somebody new
To help me through
On the rebound
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Oh yeah! Sort of a “Matchbox” feel, but what a great groove! Sing it out for someone you used to love!
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I just can’t stay here anymore
You used to be so nice
You used to love me all the time
You used to be so nice
You used to love me all the time
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I’ve got to find some peace of mind
You know I worked so hard
I try to keep you satisfied
You know I worked so hard
I try to keep you satisfied
Well you’re a mean mistreater
These are the last tears that I cried
You know I sure do love you
You got a spell that I can’t fight
You know I sure do love you
You got a spell that I can’t fight
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I need someone to treat me right
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
I got the hatchback loaded
I got my suitcase on the floor
Well you’re a mean mistreater
I just can’t stay here anymore
©2003 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
BLOOZTOWN
Released: 1999
Blooztown, performed by the New York based Hitman Blues Band, contains 10 original songs and a solo cover of Robert Johnson’s “Come On In My Kitchen”. This release started it all! With legendary sidemen Bernard “Pretty” Purdie, Johnny Gale, Ray Alexander, and Bobby Forrester, these seasoned pros helped Hitman make a critically acclaimed album that put him “on the map”.
The Hitman Blues Band plays modern blues, which can be high energy, slow and soulful, or happy boogie. It’s modern blues – blues of the 21st century.
Click the order button below and get your instant download copy of “Blooztown”. You’ll see why reviewers from Blues In Britain, Blues Matters, Bluebird, Cashbox, and many others gives rave reviews like “The Hitman Blues Band will make you glad that music exists!” – MusikReviews
“Solid Blues album – reaffirms why the art form maintains its popularity!” – CADENCE MAGAZINE
“This is a CD you can’t miss in a crowd!” – GOOD TIMES MAGAZINE
LYRICS
This tune was written after a visit from a friend. His wife is disabled, he’s short of money, and while he’s had a number of breaks in his life, nothing really panned out the way everyone thought it would. Every day is a struggle to keep it together for his family. Who would have thought it would turn out this way? Well, one thing’s for damn sure: he’s not alone in wondering who’s life he ended up living…
Somebody help me, I’m about to cross that line
Somebody help me, I’m about to cross that line
I don’t who’s life I’m living, but I know that it can’t be mine
Morning troubles
And the night time too
Look in the mirror, wonder
What I’m going to do
I’ve been down, kicked ’till I’m half blind
I don’t know who’s life I’m living
But I know that it can’t be mine
Money gone
Can’t pay my rent
Before I make it
All the money’s spent
I’ve been down, kicked ’till I’m half blind
I don’t know who’s life I’m living
But I know that it can’t be mine
Once upon a time
Had a great big car
Lots of friends
I was gonna be a star
I’ve been down, kicked ’till I’m half blind
I don’t know who’s life I’m living
But I know that it can’t be mine
Old lady’s sick
And the kids need shoes
Can’t even ride
With these walkin’ blues
I’ve been down, kicked ’till I’m half blind
I don’t know who’s life I’m living
But I know that it can’t be mine
Somebody help me, I’m about to cross that line
Somebody help me, I’m about to cross that line
I don’t who’s life I’m living, but I know that it can’t be mine
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
This tune was a lot of fun to record, It was the only one where I had to ask Bernard to play a different drum beat than the one he used. He gave me a sort of “you’re telling ME what to play?!?” look, and then nailed it right away. Every time I hear the drums, I have to smile, because it sounds so happy.
A thousand feet ahead, that’s where my baby stays
A thousand feet ahead, that’s where my baby stays
I broke her heart, I’ve gotta win her back some day
You know I’m never lonely,
You know I never cry,
You know I only miss her
On days that end with why
A thousand feet ahead, that’s where my baby stays
I broke her heart, I’ve gotta win her back some day
You know she used to love me
But I would treat her mean
She’s got a brand new man
Who treats her like a queen
A thousand feet ahead, that’s where my baby stays
I broke her heart, I’ve gotta win her back some day
You know I had my fun
I used to play around
But since she left me flat
Everything’s been staying down
A thousand feet ahead, that’s where my baby stays
I broke her heart, I’ve gotta win her back some day
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
A local bar had a scrolling marquee sign that said “It ain’t a black thing. It ain’t a white thing. It’s a green thing. Don’t ask for credit.” Pretty much sums it up.
It ain’t about black depression
It ain’t about sunny hues
It ain’t about black or white or red
It ain’t about singing the blues
It’s a green thing
It ain’t about purple passion
It ain’t about jealous rage
It ain’t about love, or even hate
Or standing here on the stage
It’s a green thing
Don’t bother me with your theories
Don’t trouble me with your facts
I’m just trying to pay my bills
Before they come and take it all back
It’s a green thing
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
True story, for the most part. Guy was blowing all kinds of riffs with a boom box next to him, and this elderly gentleman told him “Man, there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues.” Damn right. I’m not talking about hip, exciting, complex, innovative, or world changing. Just cool.
As I was walking down 47th Street
Cat was blowing saxophone to a hip hop beat
Old man came up to him, said “Let me clue you in,
You can’t know where you’re going, if you don’t know where you’ve been”
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
You can play anything you choose
But there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
That cat said “Look here, Pops, you don’t know what you’re saying
This is the hippest thing, if you dig what I’m playing”
Old man said “Listen son, I’ve seen hip come and go
If you want to talk about cool, there’s just one thing I know”
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
You can play anything you choose
But there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
Hip hop, new wave, rock and roll
Be bop, disco, funk and soul
They all sounding mighty fine
But one thing gets ’em every time
That cat was flipping, man, he started turning red
He didn’t understand a thing that old man said
He grabbed his saxophone and walked the other way
I saw him flipping burgers in Chunk y Jeez the other day
Man, there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
You can play anything you choose
But there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
There ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
You can play anything you choose
Man, you can play a thrash metal gangsta rap hip hop cd101 neuvo jazz alternative grunge r&b dance new country teenage anthem
But there ain’t nothing cooler than the blues
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Here’s where a great producer shows his stuff. I wrote this as an upbeat shuffle, which I didn’t like at all. Johnny said “Let’s slow it down. Use this feel…” and it went right off. That’s what you get when you work with great people.
When it came time for Ray to take the vibe solo, he played some great jazz riffs. Which we had to throw away. It’s not the right thing for blues, which prompted Ray to say “I feel like I’m playing with chains around me!” Sounds great to me, tho’.
I’ll be your fool, baby
‘Cause I love you so
I’ll be your fool, baby
‘Cause I love you so
You won’t be my bad time baby
I’ll be your Sunshine Romeo
You know I’ll get you
Your hearts desire
I just can’t help it baby
You set my soul on fire
I’ll be your fool…
Now my intentions
Ain’t hard to read
I got the things you want
But you got what I need
I’ll be your fool…
First time I seen you
You took my heart away
I got to have you baby
No matter what I’ve got to pay
I’ll be your fool…
© 1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Ever have a day where you just felt like you’d reached the end of the line? Sure you have. One more jerk, one more problem, one more anything, and they’d be reading about you in the papers, with people saying things like “He was such a quiet man. A nice guy. Who would have thought he would…” (this applies just as much, if not more, to women.) Play this one loud the next time you get pissed off, and sing along. People will move away from you, which can be a very good thing.
I’ve been working since,
I don’t know when
Seems like trouble’s all there’s
Ever been
Now I’m busted
Baby, dropping like a stone
Well I’ve had enough
Better leave the boy alone
I been drivin’ since the
Break of day
Seems like everybody
In my way
Now I’m busted
Baby, dropping like a stone
Well I’ve had enough
Better leave the boy alone
Losing everything I
Got to lose
Losing everything but these
Low down blues
Now I’m busted
Baby, dropping like a stone
Well I’ve had enough
Better leave the boy alone
You keep talkin’ and I’ll
Do you right
Lonesome graveyard be your
Bed tonight
Now I’m busted
Baby, dropping like a stone
Well I’ve had enough
Better leave the boy alone
Well I’m leaving when that
Sun goes down
They’ll be looking for me
All over town
Now I’m busted
Baby, dropping like a stone
Well I’ve had enough
Better leave the boy alone
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
It just keeps coming up. He’s got this, but he wants that. She did this, but wants to do the other. I’m happy just to play the blues, but a car that’s less than half my age would be nice, too.
Fun tune to record, and I got to hear my dad, Ray Alexander, stretch out a little bit. Johnny sounds like he’s playing an upright bass on this, but it’s actually a Fender.
Well a bug can’t lift a twig, for a dog it’s nothing big
But he don’t want to
And the dog can’t grab a cat, a raccoon can do all that
But he don’t want to
And I dream of you at night, while you hold your baby tight
But he don’t want you
You can see it in his eyes, from the way he tells you lies
That he don’t want you
He stays at work too long, and you beg him to come home
But he don’t want to
Girl I’d be so good for you, I know you could love me too
But you don’t want to
I got a black book full of numbers, of girls I’ll never call
They only make me think of you, you don’t think of me at all
A pig can’t eat a cow, that old bear could show him how
But he don’t want to
Now that bear can’t reach the bees, an eagle can with ease
But he don’t want to
Baby it’s a shame, your man calls someone else’s name
But girl I want you
He doesn’t love her, but she doesn’t care
I’m in the middle with my heart up in the air
It’s true, it’s like the old catch-22
‘Cause love is taking numbers
But the order’s gone askew
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
One of my favorites. This is about a street down in Maryland, but it could be anywhere. I’ve been doing this song for at least 10 years, but for this recording I just couldn’t nail the damn ending. My voice kept doing weird things. Jeff Philips (the engineer) finally tricked me into it by telling me to practice at the start of the final vocal session, and getting it on tape without telling me. Thanks, Jeff.
I’m not a stranger
Though you may not know my name
You’ve seen me a thousand times
And the story’s still the same
You shake your head
Say that’s just the way it goes
Just another three time loser
Out on Whiskey Bottom Road
Ain’t it funny
‘Cause I was once like you
Money in my pockets
And a lover, it’s all true
You don’t believe me…
Take a good look at my soul
You’ll find it torn and dying
Out on Whiskey Bottom Road
I don’t want your money
It can’t help a dying man
I took the wrong road
And you don’t get no second chance
But maybe I’ll see you down there
‘Cause man, you just never know
Where the dead men keep on walkin’
Out on Whiskey Bottom Road
When you’ve lost yourself forever
Out on Whiskey Bottom Road
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
So I’m not a saint. Never said I was. You have to make peace with what you are, and deal with it. But that doesn’t mean you have to accept making the same mistakes over again. Still, if I could do it all over again, there’d be at least one change. How about you?
If I could do it all over one more time
I’d still be drinkin’, and smokin’, doin’ fine
But I’d fix up one small part
That was where I broke your heart
If I could do it all over again
If I could do it all over again
I would stay on and love you till the end
I’d bundle up my pride
And never, never make you cry
If I could do it all over again
If I could do it all over again
I would be there every time you need a friend
I would come home every night
And I’d try to love you right
If I could do it all over again
If I could do it all over with you
I’d probably do all the things I used to do
But I’d quit that old refrain
When I start to cause you pain
If I could do it all over again
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Harlem is a beautiful place, but it can be like the end of the world. When it rains, it can clear the air or it can seem like heaven is crying. Can you capture that in a song?
It’s raining up in Harlem
And I’m just trying to make a call
It’s raining up in Harlem
And I’m just trying to make a call
But that phone just keeps on ringing
There ain’t no response at all
I said I’d call at seven
Now I’m standing in the rain
I said I’d call at seven
Now I’m standing in the rain
If I can’t reach my baby
The sun won’t never shine again
I’m going to leave this cold, cold city
And I’m going home to stay
I’m going to leave this cold, cold city
And I’m going home to stay
I’ve just got to tell my baby
My baby don’t know that I
Changed my evil ways
©1999 by Russell Alexander, all rights reserved.
Robert Johnson’s classic, done as a solo by Hitman. As he was wrapping up the first album (Blooztown), there was an acoustic guitar in the studio. He picked it up and played this, and the engineer said “Why didn’t we put that on tape yet?” Hitman said “I didn’t know if it should be on the album. Is it any good?” In unison, the producer and engineer said “YES! TAPE IT!”
When a woman in trouble,
Everybody puts her down
Looking for her good friend,
They can’t be found
You better come on in my kitchen
Hey, it’s going to be rainin’
I know
The woman I love,
I stole from my best friend
Some fool got lucky,
Stole her ‘way again
You better come on in my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be rainin’
I know
My baby’s gone,
Ain’t comin’ back
Took all my money,
Headed down the track
You better come on in my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be rainin’
I know
Went up to the mountain
Far as I could see
Another man’s got my girl
Lonesome blues got me
You better come on my kitchen
It’s goin’ to be raining
I know
