From the recording Wall Dogs
Sundown Town
An imaginary conversation between an old-time preacher and an African American person who unknowingly ends up in a dangerous place. Unfortunately, sundown towns were a common occurrence all over the South. We hope that this song helps to remember and honor those who have suffered from racial injustices. May we make life better for everybody, and never go back.
Lyrics
SUNDOWN TOWN
((© 2024, Tim Stafford, Thomm Jutz, Daniel House Music, BMI; Thommsongs SESAC admin. Blue Water)
V) I don’t know how you made it here
You must have missed the sign
But let me tell you now my friend
Some folks ‘round here ain’t kind
V) I remember Henry Jones
about a year ago
They say he drowned in the river
but I know that ain’t so
CH) Don’t let the morning find you here
Don’t be hanging ‘round
Best to grab your grip and go, Don’t take your time, don’t be slow
Don’t hang around a sundown town
V) I’m just an old-time preacher
living by the holy word
And as often as I’ve preached it
There’s some that still ain’t heard
V) As soon as there’s an outbound train
Jump back on number nine
One-way tracks don’t come back
and this here’s the end of the line
CH) Don’t let the morning find you here
Don’t be hanging ‘round
Best to grab your grip and go, Don’t take your time, don’t be slow
Don’t hang around a sundown town
Take my advice, stay on that train past the Cumberland Plateau
I’ll say a little a prayer for you when I hear the whistle blow