Easy Street
Stan Kenton · Other Songs - Stan Kenton
Our sainted mother
Would sit and croon us
Her lullaby
She'd say, kids, there's a place
That's like no other
You got to get there before you die
You don't get there
By playing from the rule book
You stack the ages
You load the dice
Mother dear
Oh, we know you're down there listening
How can we follow
Your sweet
Advice
To
Easy street
Easy street
Where you sleep till noon
Yeah, yeah, yeah
She'd repeat
Easy street
Better get there soon.
Easy street
Easy street
Where the rich folks play
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Move them feet
Move them ever-lovin' feet
To easy street
Easy street
When you get there stay
It ain't fair
How we scrounge
For three of four bucks
While she gets
Warbucks
The little brat!
It ain't fair this here life
Is drivin' me nuts!
While we get peanuts
She's livin' fat!
Maybe she holds the key
That little lady
To gettin' more bucks
Instead of less
Maybe we fix the game
With something shady
Where does that put us?
Oh, tell her.
Yes!
Easy street
Easy street
Annie is the key
Yes sirree
Yes sirree
Yes sirree
Easy street
Easy street
That's where we're gonna
Be!
About Easy Street
Stan Kenton's "Easy Street" stands as a quintessential example of his innovative approach to big band jazz, blending swing with orchestral sophistication. Released in the mid-1940s, the track exemplifies Kenton's signature style, which often incorporated classical influences and complex arrangements into popular dance music. The composition features a driving rhythm section and a melodic lead that captures the upbeat, carefree spirit of the era while showcasing the ensemble's technical prowess. As a recording, the piece reflects the high standards of Kenton's orchestra during its peak popularity. It remains a staple in the swing repertoire, frequently performed by ensembles seeking to emulate the energy and precision of the mid-century big band sound. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to balance commercial accessibility with artistic ambition, making it a defining work in the history of American jazz.