Sweet Potato Pie

Al Jarreau · Other Songs - Al Jarreau

Now it was a hot sticky morning

'Round the Fourth of July

The breeze was standing still

I'm hanging out by myself

And I'm having a good time

With the folk inside my head

And you know, Lord,

how you did a lovely thing

See, times my head is lighter

than it's ever been

And anyone who's ever had

sweet potato pie

Don't want pumpkin again,

no, they don't want



'Cause it don't taste right, no

Look-a-here city boy with your

silks and braided hair

Don't you let nobody fool you

with no imitation nothing

Tell 'em, say, unh, unh, buddy,

I been there

Listen mama, when you

finally walk on in

Don't forget to bring along

your sweet potato tin

'Cause when you serve him

a slice of your sweet potato



Sin, girl, he won't want pumpkin again,

no, he won't want

Now I took a trip down to Sissy's

She's a friend of mine

She smiled and asked me in

Well, she drew a box and a big,

fancy question mark

Said, "Brother, which one is you in?"

I told her, "Sister, don't worry

'bout the mule going blind

You just sit in the wagon and

hold on to the line

'Cause anyone who's ever had

sweet potato pie

Don't want pumpkin again,

really don't want"



Now I saw the gates

gold and pearl

And I sat right down

in a dream of you, old friend

I'm thinking some milk and

honey and a pot of stew

Might fill that gap again

You know, I'm a thankful

witness to the things I've seen



And times my head is lighter

than it's ever been

And anyone who's ever had

sweet potato pie

Really don't want pumpkin again,

no they won't want



Would you give me some

sweet potato y'all

Sweet Potato Pie

Al Jarreau's "Sweet Potato Pie" stands as a quintessential example of his mastery over jazz fusion and vocal improvisation. Released during a period where Jarreau expanded his repertoire beyond traditional standards, the track showcases his signature ability to blend smooth, soulful melodies with complex rhythmic structures. The composition highlights his versatility as a vocalist, demonstrating a fluidity that bridges the gap between R&B sensibilities and jazz sophistication. While the song lacks a specific album title in public records, it reflects the broader catalog of Jarreau's work from the late 20th century, characterized by its rich harmonies and intricate arrangements. The recording captures the essence of his career, where he consistently pushed the boundaries of vocal performance within the jazz genre, influencing subsequent artists with his emotive delivery and technical precision.