Memories With Mama (feat. Tarriona 'Tank' Ball)

You know what I used to love? Hmm

I used to love how Mama would leave the presents under the tree

With a note that said, "Thank you for the milk and cookies"

But I always knew it was her because of the handwriting

I knew it was her because of the wrapping or tapping into that

Soft spot, that place where black mothers live

In between smacking you upside your head and working extra hours for Christmas gifts

But I guess that's what Christmas is for

Maxing out credit cards and gifts galore

Clearance sales and clearing out stores

Just for smiles from pretty black girls and the joy of beautiful black boys

So much joy, joy

My, what a time to be alive

But I'd love to take it back to when love was on the table

Fake notes and homemade cards, extra chores to guarantee your favorite toy

'Cause we don't get together like we used to

Something in the gumbo is different

Everybody so distant, family don't visit

Bikes being replaced with the latest gadgets

Affection and gratefulness are like transactions

Christmas used to feel like magic

Bring back the big house

The swollen gumbo pots

Big arms from Maw Maw and pipes hanging from Paw Paw's mouth

Bring me home to New Orleans before the storm

To the very first day the South had snow

And we played, sort of like this song

Something like this song

Something like this song

Play me something like this song