Told me, “Shine, get down that line.”

I told the court, Lawd, “Rather be layin’ in jail

Wid my back turned to de wall.”

I am worried, pretty mama,

But I won’t be worried long.

Thought I rather be in my grave

Than be treated like a slave.

Say, rather be in Birmingham

Eatin’ pound cake and all.

Say, these women in Georgia