Originally written as a jazz standard by Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr. in 1939, the song God Bless the Child became one of Blood, Sweat and Tears biggest hits when their version was released in 1968.
Over the years, the song has been covered by many jazz and rock greats, and even Lisa Simpson. 80 years after it’s birth, no matter whose version you listen to, the song is a timeless classic.
Them that's got, shall get
Them that's not, shall lose
So the Bible said, and it still is news
Mama may have, and papa may have
God bless' the child,
That's got his own
That's got his own
Yes the strong seem to get more
While the weak ones fade
Empty pockets don't
Ever make the grade
As mama may have
And papa may have
God bless' the child
That's got his own
That's got his own.
And when you got money,
You got a lots of friends
Crowdin' 'round your door
When the money's gone
And all you're spendin' ends
They won't be 'round any more
No, no, no more
And rich relations
May give you
A crust of bread and such
You can help yourself
But don't take too much
Mama may have
And your papa may have
But God bless' the child
That's got his own
That's got his own
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
He just worry 'bout nothin'
Cause he's got his own
Yes he's got his own
