Angola, Louisiana - Gil Scott-Heron, Brian Jackson

Well I’m feeling fine

I could’ve been doing time.

Well, I’m doing fine, thank you,

but I could’ve been pulling time.

I know a brother man doing time,

and he didn’t commit no crime.

So, thank you, I’m doing fine,

cuz I could’ve been pulling time.

I’ve been painting a picture of Angola, Louisiana

pictures of deals in back alleys where politicians often hide

But it’s much more important to me than Angola, Louisiana

Got a lot to do with justice but more with Gary Tyler’s life

I got a letter from his mother (that) said,

«Please!

Say somethin' to my son.»

Truth is: Angola, Louisiana, you’re the one.

I ain’t never been nowhere near Angola, Louisiana.

Down in St. Charles Parish where the sun won’t go alone.

But injustice is not confined to Angola, Louisiana.

It can walk in your livin' room

as long as it surrounds your home.

I send love to brother Tyler, but after all is said and done;

Truth is: Angola, Louisiana, you’re the one.

I can’t tell a man not to defend himself,

not at this late stage.

I can’t tell a man he got no rights, nowhere,

not in this day and age.

This song may not touch a whole lot of people

persuaded by the truth,

but take a look at what’s goin' on, people,

'cause this all could happen to you.

I’ve been painting a picture of Angola, Louisiana

Down in St. Charles Parish, where the sun won’t go alone

But injustice is not confined to Angola, Louisiana

Well, it can be in your living room

Brother Tyler, hold on, be strong, you’re not alone!

I got a letter from his mother that said,

«Please, say something to my son!»

Truth is: Angola, Louisiana, you’re the one.