I remember a funny man who used to make us laugh

But the proof of his truth--they cut his life in half

A caustic wit that cut a bit--opinions were too strong

He must have rubbed somebody wrong

Cuz he's long time gone



I remember a crucial man--played strat' with his left hand

Tunes he chose of "Gold and Roe" and "Castles Made of Sand"

Social ills--hi conscience willed a different type of song

Sang about "lead"--click, BANG! He's dead--he's long time gone



I remember an ebony prince who taught his brothers pride

Said the black man's loss--just another cross on which another prophet has died

Some people wanted them leaderless--a race of hungry pawns

Their solution to his revolution: To make him long time gone



Though some will object when you suspect

That they cause to affect the cause and effect