How Long Blues
Jimmy Rushing · Best Of [2003]
Baby how long
Have that ev'nin train been gone
Baby, how long, how long, baby how long
Hear it was so
Can't see no train
But deep in my heart I feel and achin' pain
And that's a-how long, how long, babe how long
Into the station
Look up at the board
Next train around
Strawberry Road
How long, how, woo, baby how long
'Make it wail ev'rybody'
'Yeah, so sweet'
Down atta station
With my head hung down
Lookin' at my sugar, when she leave this town
Baby, how long, how long, baby how long
I ain't got no money
Buy a ticket on a train
But I'll ride de blinds, baby
Be back home, again
Well, how long, how long, baby how long
See me comin'
Gon get some plow work
I'll cut your liver
Plug your heartache
Been so long, woo swoo, baby how long
'Sonny, wail about it'
Feelin' bad, I'm lookin' sad
Thinkin' bout the bad luck, Sonny
I once have had
But how long, how long, honey how long
See the green grass, growin' on a hill
Never seen no green grass on a dollar bill
How long, how long, baby how long
Lower you, baby
To a hollow tree
Way you treat me
Come back to you
Hoo, low, hoo, woo, baby gone
'Make it wail ev'rybody, now'
Feel so disgusted, I feel so blue
Sometimes Sonny, I don't know
What in the world I'm gonna do
Now, how long, how long, yeah how long
See that little house, sitting on the hill
You don't love me, goin try another who will
How long, how long baby, how long
See my baby, tell her I'll be runnin' home
I've been worried, ever since she been gone
How long, how, woo, baby how long
'Love to see ya'
'Play for me, now'
How Long Blues
Jimmy Rushing, widely known as the 'Yak,' was a defining voice in the swing and blues eras, celebrated for his deep, resonant baritone. This recording of 'How Long Blues' captures the essence of his powerful delivery, showcasing the emotional weight he brought to standard blues material. As a long-time vocalist with the Count Basie Orchestra, Rushing established a legacy that bridged the gap between jazz and blues, influencing countless singers who followed. His work on this track reflects the robust, soulful style that made him a favorite among audiences and musicians alike. The song stands as a testament to his ability to convey profound feeling through a straightforward musical arrangement, cementing his status as a master of the genre.