The Ballad of Arlis Richards

Arlis Richards was a man Who lived among the blacks He was a cross tie walker With guitar on his back Barely educated Couldn't write his name But when he played his guitar Everybody sang I have been set free Pain and misery No longer follow me I know Jesus Just outside of Memphis Back in '52 Arlis was a ramblin' The way that he would do Playing on his guitar Sitting in the shade People came to listen To the music that he made I have been set free Pain and misery No longer follow me I know Jesus Some folks walked on by They saw the color of his skin Others stayed and cried They saw the man within When his song was over Arlis went his way But some folks say revival Started that day I have been set free Pain and misery No longer follow me I know Jesus One more time, gonna sing this song I have been set free Pain and misery No longer follow me I know Jesus He knows me