FRANKIE BLUES


as recorded by Bessie Smith
with Robert Robbins (violin)
& Irving Johns (piano)
April 8th 1924 New York


Frankie was a good fellow to everyone he knew,
I had some trouble with Frankie, that made me feel so blue;
He packed his grip for a trip and said, "I'm leavin' now, honey dear!".

He called to see me next day;
I was mad and this is what I said -

I'm weary now, but I won't be worried long,
I miss sweet Frankie since he's been gone, yes I do!
He went away, he know he done me wrong!

I tell you,
Now I'm weepin' like a willow tree
Since sweet Frankie's went away from me.
Where he's gone I do not know,
He was seen some place near Baltimore.

Yes, I will pay most fair reward
If you will find Frankie, Lord.
I been to 'Frisco, Hackensack,
Tryin' to find Frankie and bring him back.
Somebody find that sweet Frankie of mine,
Ease my mind!

Yes, I will pay most fair reward
If you will find Frankie, Lord.
I phoned my angel, he didn't hear,
I phoned Saint Peter, send a prayer down here!
Somebody find that sweet Frankie of mine
And ease my mind!





(Transcribed by Peter Akers - September 2015)