Why another sad prison song?
I grew up in Texas and Oklahoma. I heard a lot of talk and songs about prison as a kid. As I got older, friends went to juvenile hall. Even recently, I have met folks with years lost to the prison system for not being rich enough for good lawyers basically, or a lawyer at all. When I look at racism and poverty in America and want to help, the first thing that comes to my mind is to speak up about prison and cops.
As a mental patient, I have had run-ins with the police in 3 different states. I found every cop I met to be dull and easy to get a rise from. I realize every cop can’t be that way, of course. However, your odds are not great for finding compassion and intelligence from a police officer, judging from my experience.
We have to mention poverty and racism. Prison isn’t only where criminals go, it’s a rug. Cops sweep poor black folks under it. I hate it. If you happen to be rich and white, you’ll probably be ok.
Once I dwelt on this stuff then got to wondering who paid the cops, this song came out.
About the 12 String
Keri’s father left us this guitar. Every time I play it, I get Willie Nelson vibes. Her father’s favorite musician was Willie Nelson. I guess I am thinking about that somehow while playing it. I am not mad at it.
Personnel:
Brady Jo up in New York City mixed it up. Kev Sharp in Leicester played keys. And Jim “Barefoot Jimmy” Schwarz from the band The Blues Disciples played the harmonica. Keri and I wrote and did everything else.
Lyrics:
15 yrs I will serve for redemption
With nothing but time for regret
Everyone I know won’t be there for me no more
But I ain’t done living life yet.
Lonesome rebels abandoned after the war
We’re like loaded guns made of flesh and bone
We got caught up with the sheriff after our last score
Now we’re breaking rocks and writing letters home
Broken hearted mother as she kissed me on the head
After the the judge and jury told me 15 years
I still can’t remember every single word she said
When I get out I have my doubts she’ll still be here.
15 yrs I will serve for redemption
With nothing but time for regret
Everyone I know won’t be there for me no more
But I ain’t done living life yet.
Rehabilitation aims to make me lose my mind
It don’t matter just as long as I get by
I’ve been focused on survival
So you shouldn’t hold me liable
I haven’t time to read up on the Bible
I’m looking for a home but not right now
A new day is just a number, and hope don’t matter anyhow
And home sure ain’t here
It’s better not to think about it for a few more years
15 years I will serve for redemption
With nothing but time for regret
Everyone I know won’t be there for me no more
But I ain’t done living life yet
Where to find?
This song is available for free on bandcamp as is the rest of our catalog. Enjoy.
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