Sweet Lady Genevieve

The Kinks · Preservation Act 1 [1973]

(Sung by The Tramp)



Once under a scarlet sky I told you never ending lies,

But they were the words of a drunken vagabond

Who knew very well he would break your heart before long

Oh forgive me Genevieve.



Now I've come back to see Sweet Lady Genevieve,

This time I'll give you some security

And I will make promises I can keep

So will you come back to me Sweet Lady Genevieve.



Let me rock you, hold you,

Take you in my arms.

Forgive me, please,

Smile away all your sadness, put your trust in me.



Oh if you come back to me Sweet Lady Genevieve,

I'm not the impetuous fool you used to know

I know that I used you and I hurt you so,

But that was so long ago Sweet Lady Genevieve.



Oh, love me,

Take me in your arms.

Let me rock you, hold you,

Smile away all your sadness, put your trust in me.



Once under a starry sky I led you on and told you lies

Drank too much whiskey on that hot summer night.

I acted so slyly because you were acting so shy,

Oh forgive me Genevieve.



If you come back to me Sweet Lady Genevieve,

You're not the child who smiled so innocently

And I'm not the rogue that I used to be,

So will you come back to me Sweet Lady Genevieve.



Oh Genevieve, Oh Genevieve.

Sweet Lady Genevieve

Released on The Kinks' 1973 album Preservation Act 1, 'Sweet Lady Genevieve' stands as a poignant exploration of lost love and the passage of time. Ray Davies delivers a melancholic performance that captures the quiet devastation of a relationship ending, contrasting sharply with the band's earlier, more upbeat rock sound. The track exemplifies the group's mature songwriting during the early 1970s, utilizing a restrained melody and reflective lyrics to depict the lingering emotional impact of a departed partner. As part of Preservation Act 1, the recording reflects Davies' interest in themes of memory and societal change, grounding the personal narrative within a broader cultural context.