When I was just a lad in 1970 I heard a song on the old transistor AM radio that stuck in my head. I’m 44 years old now and still sing this song, (…to myself for safety’s sake…), everyday. Now that is a catchy tune! Norman Greenbaum made a huge impact with this song and I’m glad I still hear it today. This song made “One Hit Wonders” of not one, but two artist. First, Norman Greenbaum and then Doctor and the Medics in the 80’s. Later it was recorded by the popular crossover group, The Kentucky Headhunters in a style I often prefer to the original.
Anyhoo, it is the middle of the night, I can’t sleep, and I’m listening to music. Just seems natural to make mention of one of my all-time favorite songs. Here are the lyrics, (with notes below).
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
When I lay me down to die
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
Goin’ up to the spirit in the sky
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die
When I die and they lay me to rest
Gonna go to the place that’s the best
Prepare yourself you know it’s a must
Gotta have a friend in Jesus*
So you know that when you die
He’s gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky
Gonna recommend you
To the spirit in the sky
That’s where you’re gonna go when you die
When you die and they lay you to rest
You’re gonna go to the place that’s the best
Never been a sinner, I never sinned**
I got a friend in Jesus*
So you know that when I die
He’s gonna set me up with
The spirit in the sky
Oh set me up with the spirit in the sky
That’s where I’m gonna go when I die
When I die and they lay me to rest
I’m gonna go to the place that’s the best
Go to the place that’s the best
* Nope. Despite rumors to the contrary, everyone that is not a Christian is a Satanist. Don’t have a caniption fit.
Now if you are one of those rabid-type Pagans that turns green at the mere mention of Jesus, then insert your God’s name here – and get a Life while you are at it. If anything you are worse than the rabid-type Christians!
** The Kentucky HeadHunters did a version of this song, (that I prefer to Mr. Greenbaum’s depending on my mood…), which says “I’ve been a sinner, Yes I’ve sinned” at this point. Makes more sense to me. Contrary to many Pagans I do believe in the concept of sin. Just not in the same manner as Christians.
A topic for another post…
Bull, out.
