Black Betty
Feel So Bad · Kicking Against The Pricks [1986]
Look-a look-a yonder
Look-a look-a yonder
Well the sun done gone
The captain can't hold her
The captain can't hold her
The captain can't hold her
The way I do now
Ada got a gold mine
Ada got a gold mine
Ada got a gold mine
Way above her knees
The shiv is golden
The shiv is golden
The shiv is golden
Above her knees
Look-a look-a yonder
Look-a look-a yonder
Look-a look-a yonder
Well the sun done gone
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Black Betty had a baby, bam-e-lam
Black Betty had a baby, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was crazy, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was crazy, bam-e-lam
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Oh, Betty Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Oh, Betty Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Black Betty had a baby, bam-e-lam
Black Betty had a baby, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was crazy, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was crazy, bam-e-lam
Black Betty didn't mind, bam-e-lam
Black Betty didn't mind, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was blind, bam-e-lam
Damn thing was blind, bam-e-lam
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Wohoh, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Black Betty, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Black Betty, Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Jump steady Black Betty, bam-e-lam
Jump steady Black Betty, bam-e-lam
That Monday, I was arrested
Tuesday, I locked up in jail
Wednesday baby, my trial's tested
On Thursday, nobody could blow my bail
Yes, I'm almost done
Yes, I'm almost done
Yes, I'm almost done
And I ain't gonna yell against no bells
On Monday, baby I went a-walking
Tuesday, I .... asked to go
On Wednesday I sat down a-talking
On Thursday she hock all a my clothes
Yes, I'm almost done
Yes, I'm almost done
Yes, I'm almost done
And I ain't gonna .... no more
Black Betty
Black Betty is a track by the English band Feel So Bad, featured on their 1986 album Kicking Against The Pricks. The song draws from the rich tradition of American folk and blues, reinterpreting a classic work that has been covered by numerous artists across decades. Feel So Bad's version reflects the energetic and roots-oriented style characteristic of their early discography. Released during a vibrant period for British alternative and indie music, the recording showcases the band's ability to engage with established material while maintaining a distinct sonic identity. The track stands as a notable song in their catalogue, highlighting their connection to broader musical lineages beyond their immediate genre. It remains a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional songs when revitalized by contemporary performers.