The MLK Blues

Poststructural Pub
1

I wrote this a few years ago. It seemed appropriate to share for today after going through the MLK Day thread.

I once learned that there are basically two kinds of blues. Songs about a good man feeling bad, or a bad man feeling good. This one is of the former, a la B.B. King.

The MLK Blues

I know I’m dreamin’ lofty
A lofty, lofty dream.
Ya I know I’m dreamin’ lofty, baby
A lofty, lofty dream.
When I try to make the world out
To be better than it seems

Well you got the Whites hatin’ Blacks
The Blacks hatin’ Whites
We’re acting worse than packs of dogs
When all we do is fight
Ya I know I’m dreamin’ lofty, baby
A lofty, lofty dream.
When I try to make the world out
To be better than it seems

Solos

I dream a world of brotherhood
Not this awful ugly sin
Ya I dream a world of sisterhood
Not this awful ugly sin
Where men are judged by character,
Not the color of their skin

I dream an end to color wars
A peaceful end in sight
We are invited to God’s love
In a rainbow of delight
Ya I know I’m dreamin’ lofty, baby
A lofty, lofty dream.
When I try to make the world out
To be better than it seems

Oh oh! Good Lord, almighty have mercy on me!

2

Anyone remember the Staple Singers’ Long Road to DC? They played that on NPR yesterday, and it was good to be reminded of it.

Note to self: get CD with old Staple Singers stuff.

3

Scott, this is what’s called “keeping the dream alive”! I love it! :slight_smile: :slight_smile: :slight_smile:

(Maybe you can get B.B. and “Lucille” to record it.) :wink:

4

Thank you!