Stevie Wonder

Released: December 8, 1968

Songwriter: Billie Holiday Arthur Herzog Jr.

Producer: Henry “Hank” Cosby Stevie Wonder Don Hunter

[Intro]
Mmm-hmm, mmm-hmmm, oh yeah

[Verse 1]
Them that's got shall get
Them that's not shall lose
So the Bible says and it still is news

[Chorus]
Mama may have, papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, yeah
That's got his own
Oh yeah

[Verse 2]
Yes, the strong gets more
While the weak ones fade
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade, no, no, no, no

[Chorus]
Mama may have, papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, yeah
That's got his own
Oh yeah

[Bridge]
Money, you've got lots of friends
Crowding 'round your door, oh yeah
But when you're gone and spending ends
Oh, they don't come around anymore, oh yeah

[Verse 3]
Rich relations give
Crust of bread and such
You can help yourself
But please don't take too much, no, no, no

[Chorus]
Mama may have, papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, yeah
That's got his own

[Harmonica solo]

[Verse 3 repeated]
Oh, rich relations give
Crust of bread and such
You can help yourself
But oh don't take too much, no, no, no

[Chorus]
Mama may have, papa may have
God bless the child that's got his own, hoo
That's got his own, oh, hmm
That's got his own, yeah, hmm

[Outro]
I've got my own, hmm
That's got his own

Despite losing his sight at a young age, Stevie Wonder went on to become one of the most celebrated soul songwriters of the late 20th century. His songs manage to both innovate and catch the ears of listeners of all dispositions, whilst also being big chart hits.

Incredibly influential amongst musical circles, his voice rendered modern British soul-songwriter James Morrison close to tears the first time he heard it.

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