Sweet Potato Pie
Al Jarreau · Other Songs - Al Jarreau
'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.

