Tell Mama

Etta James

About Tell Mama

"Tell Mama" is a song written by Clarence Carter, Marcus Daniel and Wilbur Terrell (though some recordings give the sole songwriting credit to Carter). It is best known in its 1967 recording by Etta James. An earlier version of the song was first recorded in 1966 by Carter, as "Tell Daddy".


Year:
1968
2:21

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You thought you'd found a good girl
One to love you and give you the world
Now you find that you've been misused
Talk to me, I'll do what you choose, I want you to

Tell Mama, all about it
Tell Mama, what you need
Tell Mama, what you want
And I'll make everything alright

That girl you had didn't have no sense
She wasn't worth all the time that you spent
She had another man throw you outdoors
Now the same man is wearing your clothes, I want you to

Tell Mama, all about it
Tell Mama, what you need
Tell Mama, what you want
And I'll make everything alright

Tell me, tell me now

She would embarrass you anywhere
She'd let everybody know she didn't care
Give me a chance I've been beggin' you
And I just want to take care of you, I want you to

Tell Mama, all about it
Tell Mama, what you need
Tell Mama, what you want
Tell Mama, what you want right now

Tell me, tell your mom
I'm your Mama
Tell me what you want

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Etta James

Etta James (born Jamesetta Hawkins; January 25, 1938 – January 20, 2012) was an American singer. Her style spanned a variety of music genres including blues, rhythm and blues, rock and roll, soul, gospel and jazz. Starting her career in 1954, she gained fame with hits such as "Roll With Me, Henry", "At Last", "Tell Mama", "Something's Got a Hold on Me", and "I'd Rather Go Blind" for which she wrote the lyrics. She faced a number of personal problems, including drug addiction, before making a musical resurgence in the late 1980s with the album The Seven Year Itch. more »

6 fans

Written by: WILBUR TERRELL, MARCUS DANIEL, CLARENCE CARTER

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Year
"Tell Mama" was released in 1967. This song was one of the later releases in Etta James' career, considering she began her career in the mid-1950s.
Labels
This song was released under the Chess and Cadet labels. The Chess Label, in particular, was a major player in the rhythm and blues scene.
Genre and Style
"Tell Mama" is a soul song with blues influences. Etta James' voice dominates the track, displaying the type of vocal power and emotional range she was famous for.
Success and Chart Performance
"Tell Mama" was a chart-topper and is considered one of Etta James' biggest hits. It peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 10 on the R&B Chart.
Songwriters
The song was written by Clarence Carter, Marcus Daniel, and Wilbur Terrell. Carter is especially well-known as a notable singer-songwriter in the soul music genre.
Studio Recording
“Tell Mama” was recorded at the Fame Recording Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. These studios are one of the most important recording sites in the history of soul and R&B music.
Legacy
“Tell Mama” just about defined Etta James' career and has been covered by many artists over the years, including Janis Joplin. This speaks volumes about its lasting impact in the world of music.
Album
"Tell Mama" is also the title track of Etta James' 1968 album. The album was a major success and is considered a classic in the soul and R&B genre.
Music Production
Legendary producer Rick Hall was at the helm of the music production for "Tell Mama". Hall is celebrated for his contributions to the development of the soul music genre.
Theme
The lyrical theme of 'Tell Mama' is about a woman who assures her guy that she is always there whenever he needs support. The track is cherished for its strong emotional resonance.

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1968

    Billboard #23


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