About the song
Savoy Brown’s “Tell Mama” is a blues-rock gem that embodies the raw, emotional energy of the genre. Released in 1971 as part of the album Raw Sienna, this track highlights the band’s impressive ability to merge soulful blues with a rock edge, showcasing their distinctive sound and deep musical roots.
The song is a powerful blend of blues and rock, featuring a compelling narrative about longing and heartache. “Tell Mama” is a plea for understanding and empathy, as the singer reaches out for solace and advice from a maternal figure. The lyrics express vulnerability and emotional depth, themes that resonate strongly within the blues tradition. Savoy Brown’s performance is both intense and heartfelt, driven by a robust rhythm section and blues-infused guitar riffs that capture the essence of the era.
Savoy Brown, led by guitarist Kim Simmonds, was at the forefront of the British blues movement during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Known for their innovative sound and energetic performances, the band made significant contributions to the genre. “Tell Mama” stands out as a quintessential example of their ability to convey profound emotion through music. The track’s compelling melody and Simmonds’ expressive guitar work exemplify the band’s mastery of blending blues traditions with a rock sensibility.
Listening to “Tell Mama” today, one is transported back to a time when blues and rock were converging in exciting new ways. The song remains a testament to Savoy Brown’s enduring influence and their ability to craft music that speaks to the heart. For those who appreciate the depth of blues and the evolution of rock, “Tell Mama” is a powerful reminder of the emotional and musical legacy that Savoy Brown has left behind.
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Lyrics
Quit my job, ain’t got no money
Seems I have to leave this town
Packed my bags, run to the station
Board the train that’s eastward bound
Tell mama and all the folks back home
Sometimes a man just feels
He’s got to make it alone
Tell mama why I’m leaving so soon
Because this life I live
Has got me sick through and through
Nothing to do, that’s why I had to go
Seemed no use in hanging ’round
I can’t stop now, the ticket’s in my hand
Board the train that’s eastward bound
Tell mama and all the folks back home
Sometimes a man just feels
He’s got to make it alone
Tell mama why I’m leaving so soon
Because this life I live
Has got me sick through and through
Quit my job, ain’t got no money
Seems I have to leave this town
Tell mama and all the folks back home
Sometimes a man just feels
He’s got to make it alone
Tell mama why I’m leaving so soon
Because this life I live
Has got me sick through and through