T. B. Ledford, an undiscovered gem.
I've been learning songs my whole life. I know hundreds. It's so rare that I discover a new song worthy of mastering and memorizing. My Canadian apostle Mohammed kept playing this amazing song, Blues For Jesus. I finally asked him, "Who wrote that song?" Turns out he picked it up listening to this local Jackson band playing every Sunday afternoon out at Livingston near me Flora. Anyway, I learn the song and am even more impressed. Then Mohammed tells me T. B. Is playing every other Thursday at Fertile Ground with his new band, The Hustlers. I go down there and there's childhood, Greenwood family friend Aven Whittington playing a Dobro and the band is doing this way cool country-bluegrass-blues stuff. I am totally into it, but have to beg T. B. to play Blues for Jesus. He's apparently shy about doing his original stuff, even though it's star material. Anyway, here it is. Put some good headphones on and treat yourself to some homegrown music from a local boy who should be world famous.
Here are the beautiful lyrics:
Blues for Jesus
By T. B. Leford
They never listen anymore, not like they ever did before.
The only death that you could never heal. Do you remember how I made you feel?
I got my crown. I got my cross. I once was found but now I'm lost.
How can I make it to that golden shore? I can't walk on water . . . anymore.
Oh Jesus. Jesus you're my only friend. Tell me where do I begin.
I'll sing your tunes. I'll clean your wounds.
I'll comb your tangled hair out from under your halo.
Oh Jesus, home nights nearly done. I think I see the sun.
Let's have another drink of wine. Before you go.
Nothing works out quite the way you want it to.
Mom's got an orchid and a brand new Easter bonnet.
And all the world is new on Easter day.
He's got a message just for you. He's having trouble getting through.
So while you're waiting for your phone to ring won't you help me sing these blues for Jesus.
