Daddy played piano,
Played it very well.
Music from those hands could
Catch you like a spell.

He could make you love him
'Fore the tune was done.
You have your daddy's hands.
You are your daddy's son.

Daddy never knew
That you were on your way.
He had other ladies
And other tunes to play.
When he up and left me
I just up and run.
Only thing in my head--
You were your daddy's son.

Couldn't hear no music,
Couldn't see no light.
Mama, she was frightened,
Crazy from the fright.
Tears without no comfort,
Screams without no sound.
Only darkness and pain,
The anger and pain,
The blood and the pain!
I buried my heart in the ground!
In the ground.
When I buried you
In the ground...

Daddy played piano.
Bet he's playing still.
Mama can't forget him.
Don't suppose I will.
God wants no excuses.
I have only one.
You have your daddy's hands.
Forgive me.
You are your daddy's son.