The Southern Side

My father came from Kentucky
My mother from North Caroline
And I was born up in Detroit
Once they left their Southern roots behind
But now and then there seems to be
A thing I call The Southern Side of me

I grew up in Southern California
My parents grew up in poverty
Kids from The Depression
They wanted more for my brother and me
And if you check my family tree
You’ll find that there’s a Southern Side of me

BRIDGE
Now I’m not claiming that it makes me better
It’s just a part of me that I can trace
I hope that my sons appreciate it
When they end up standing in my place

My father worked hard in the factory
My mother worked hard in our home
They saved a little every week
And still paid all the bills and every loan
We didn’t live in luxury
But that’s part of The Southern Side of me

My father is buried ‘neath an oak tree
My mother is buried by his side
They brought us up to do our best
With just a little taste of Southern pride
If you don’t like it let’s agree
That you can kiss The Southern Side of me