1865 (96º In the Shade)

96 degrees in the shade
Real hot in the shade
96 degrees in the shadeReal hot (whoa-yes) in the shade

Said it was 96 degrees in the shade
Ten thousand soldiers on parade
Taking I and I to meet a big fat boy
Sent from overseas
The queen employ
Excellency before you, I come
With my representation
You know where I′m coming from

You caught me on the loose
Fighting to be free
Now you show me a noose
On the cotton tree
Entertainment for you
Martyrdom for me

96 degrees in the shade
Real hot in the shade
96 degrees in the shade
Real hot (whoa-yes) in the shade

Some may suffer, and some may burn
But I know that one day, my people will learn
As sure as the sun shines way up in the sky
Today I stand here a victim, the truth is I'll never die

96 degrees in the shade
Real hot in the shade
96 degrees in the shade
Real hot (whoa-yes) in the shade

96 degrees in the shade
Real hot in the shade
96 degrees in the shade
Real hot in the shade

96 degrees in the shade
Real hot (whoa-yes) in the shade
96 degrees in the shade