Discover the poetic beauty in ‘Gimme a Pigfoot (And a Bottle of Beer)’ by Abbey Lincoln. This lyric breakdown takes you on a journey through the artist’s thoughts, emotions, and the story they aim to tell. From clever metaphors to evocative imagery, we delve into the nuances that make this song a lyrical masterpiece. Whether you’re a fan of Abbey Lincoln or a lover of well-crafted words, our detailed analysis will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation of this song.
Up in Harlem ev’ry Saturday night
When the highbrows get together its just too tight
They all congregates at an all night strut
And what they do is tut-tut-tut
Old Hannah Brown from ‘cross town
Gets full of corn and starts breakin’ ’em down
Just at the break of day
You can hear old Hannah say
Gimme a pigfoot and a bottle of beer
Send me ‘gain, I don’t care
I feel just like I wanna clown
Give the piano player a drink
Because he’s bringin’ me down!
He’s gotta rhythm, Y-e-e-a-a-h!
When he stomps his feet
He sends me right off to sleep
Check all your razors and your guns
We gonna be ‘rested when the wagon comes
I wanna pigfoot and a bottle of beer
Send me ’cause I don’t care
Play me ’cause I don’t care
(Trumpet Solo)
Gimme a pigfoot and a bottle of beer
Send me ‘gain, I don’t care
I feel just like I wanna clown
Give the piano player a drink
Because he’s bringin’ me down
He’s got rhythm, Y-e-e-a-a-h!
When he stomps his feet
He sends me right off to sleep
Check all your razors and your guns
Do the shim-sham-shimmy ’til the risin’ sun
Give me a reefer and a gang o’ gin
Play me ’cause I’m in my sin
Play me ’cause I’m full of gin