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Before I Stop Loving You

from Bootlegs and Bedrooms by Mandalyn May

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A Humorous Murder Ballad for the Ages

In the old time tradition there are quite a few murder ballads that share a similar story line: guy likes girl, guy takes girl out walking, girl says no, girl ends up dead in the river or under the willow tree. Many of these murder ballads are said to be based on actual events that took place during the pioneer days of American history - when there were considerably fewer women than men, and some men took the view 'if I can't have her, no one else can.' While I like old time songs and singing traditional versions, I also couldn't help but wonder - what would an old timey murder ballad from the female perspective look like?

So here you are:

lyrics

Before I Stop Loving You:

I've been waiting on the end of time
for you to learn your wrong from right
but you can't seem to find your higher ground
'n I don't know but I guess you've been told
your touch is worth its weight in gold,
you think you've the right to fool around

Oh baby, you're driving me crazy
I know what any sane woman would do
But I'll stop loving the shit you've been shoveling
a long time before I stop loving you

Well I don't think I am weak of mind
but you've convinced me time and time again
that you intended to be true
Now I know that you have said the same
to other girls, I know their names
I've seen the letters you signed 'I love you.'

Oh baby, you're driving me crazy
I know what any sane woman would do
But I'll stop loving the shit you've been shoveling
a long time before I stop loving you

So I met with Jenni Jo and Linda Sue and Bobby Jean
to decide your ever loving fate
We agreed you'd never change your ways
you dug yourself an early grave
it's time to meet your final resting place

(instrumental break over chorus)

By the tracks there is an old cock shack
has an outhouse in the back
got you drunk and laid you on the floor
one by one we told you pretty things
made you cry and beg and sing
and then we dropped you ten feet down the hole

Oh baby, you done drove me crazy
A sane woman would leave you and be through
But I'll stop loving the shit that I'm shoveling
a long time before I stop loving you.

Yeah, I'll stop loving the shit that I'm shoveling
a long time before I stop loving you.

credits

from Bootlegs and Bedrooms, released January 1, 2015

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Mandalyn May Chico, California

From sweet & soulful to hopping & hollering, Mandalyn May (of Sons of Jefferson, Hop Holler & Hum) shines on ukulele, guitar, & mountain dulcimer. With a voice reminiscent of Appalachia and a fresh, percussive playing style, she relates stories of life, love, murder and history with gentle gusto. RIYL: lyrics, quirky humor, and open hearted love songs. ... more

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