Tell Riley

Tell Riley, Baby, next time he come to town
If he needs somewhere to lay – lay his body down
Tell Riley he’s welcome to stay –
Mark my words, he’s gonna be big someday

I’m leavin’ Memphis – Ol’ Booker’s got to go
Mister Melrose sent a telegram from Chicago
That’s the man makin’ records on me –
Wants to make some more –
Gonna sing my song ‘til my throat gets sore

So, Tell Riley, Baby, next time he come to town
If he needs somewhere to lay – lay his pallet down
Tell Riley he’s welcome to stay –
Mark my words, he’s gonna be big someday

Foldn’ money an’ a fancy dress for your when I get back
Sho’ beats workin’ on Parchman Farm –
That’s a natural fact –
Lester Melrose, he fixed my parole
I thank him with my heart an’ soul
I’m so glad to be a free man again

Tell Riley, Baby, next time he come to town
If he needs somewhere to lay – lay his pallet down
Tell Riley Uncle Booker said he could stay –
An’ mark my words – mark my words – mark my words
He’ll B.B. King someday