ONE DRINK IS ONE TOO MANY (AND A THOUSAND'S NOT ENOUGH)
(Carroll Baker)


Carroll Baker - 1976

Also recorded by: Philomena Begley



He was just the average kind of guy you find hangin' round the bar
By the way he listened to our band, I knew he played guitar
So when the show was over, I just had to talk to him
Shook his hand, said "How ya doin'", he just answered with a grin

He said "Can I buy you something", I said "No thanks, I don't drink"
The strangest look came across his face and he looked at me and winked
He said "I joined AA just last year, it's sure been mighty rough
One drink is one too many and a thousand's not enough"

I said "Why come to a place like this, you must be living in pure hell"
He said "I played guitar some years ago and they say I played it well
Music was my only love, but I just had to give it up
One drink is one too many and a thousand's not enough"

So I gave him my guitar, said "Won't you please play me a song"
Shook his head, said "I just couldn't, I haven't played one for so long"
So I coaxed him just a little more and he finally gave up
Sang a song of one's too many and a thousand's not enough

So now I understand it as he plays and sings his song
And I know it's through the grace of God he's found where he belongs
I know that he was drownin' once, but for the last time he's come up
He said "One is one too many and a thousand's not enough"
Yes, he said "One is one too many and a thousand's not enough"



(Transcribed by Mel Priddle - April 2019)