Went downtown yesterday mornin’ with a shadow on my face Dirty hair, shoulders bare, felt like a disgrace My love was gone for good, I wanted to forget Barkeep grinned, said come on in, and pushed in a cassette
There was just one man up at the bar, his drink was almost dry Pulled up at his side, said, barkeep, bring us two more rye Scratched his grayin’ head, said thanks son, boy you look like hell My mama told me something that I think will serve you well
I was made from pieces yesterday surrendered Tomorrow when I die, they’ll wash away So today there’s just one thing I must remember You and I are here to share the day
Knocked ‘em back ‘til sundown with my drinkin’ buddy Ray Family gone, couldn’t find a job, but glad for every day Thought about his stories, thought about my own Paid my tab, shook his hand, and rode the subway home
Woke up late this morning, put on the TV news A bouncer beat up an old black man, said he couldn’t hold his booze Knocked out on the sidewalk, wasn’t long until he died Newsman read his name, I saw his picture and I cried
I was made from pieces yesterday surrendered Tomorrow when I die, they’ll wash away So today there’s just one thing I must remember You and I are here to share the day