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