God Bless The Child
Billie Holiday w_Eddie Heywood & his Orchestra Lyrics
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Them that's not shall lose
So the Bible says and it still is news
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Yes the strong get smart
While the weak ones fade
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Money, you've got lots of friends
They're crowding around your door
But when you're gone and spending ends
They don't come no more
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
You can help yourself, but don't take too much
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Money you've got lots of friends
They're crowding around your door
But when you're gone and spending ends
They don't come no more
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
You can help yourself, but don't take too much
Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
Here just don't worry about nothing cause he's got his own
Yes, he's got his own
The lyrics of Billie Holiday's "God Bless the Child" express a universal truth that wealth is power and the possession of riches gives one the ability to dictate terms of existence while the poor and weak are left to suffer. The song quotes the Bible in saying, "Them that's got shall have, them that's not shall lose." The song's lyrics emphasize the importance of financial independence to ensure one's dignity and wellbeing.
The song emphasizes the values of self-reliance and self-sufficiency, reflecting the artist's life experience dealing with systemic racism in her early years. Billie's lyrics suggest that those who have nothing often are left without a voice and are powerless and devalued in societal and familial settings. The lyrics also convey the message that people who are materially independent possess the power to break those shackles and find a life of true freedom.
Moreover, the song emphasizes that the pursuit of materialism and wealth is a path that often leads to false friends, superficial relationships, and a life lacking in genuine connection. Thus, the song advises individuals to be mindful of people's intentions, even those of wealthy or influential individuals who offer something in the face of financial struggles.
Line by Line Meaning
Them that's got shall have
People who already have wealth will continue to gain more
Them that's not shall lose
People who don't have much will continue to have less
So the Bible says and it still is news
This is a harsh reality that hasn't changed
Mama may have, Papa may have
Your parents may have wealth
But God bless the child that's got his own, that's got his own
But it's better to have your own wealth than to rely on your parents'
Yes the strong get smart
Those who are strong and successful become savvy about maintaining their wealth
While the weak ones fade
Meanwhile, those who are struggling continue to struggle and may fall further behind
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade
Being poor makes it harder to succeed in life
Money, you've got lots of friends
People may be friendly to you when you have money
They're crowding around your door
They will want to be near you and benefit from your wealth
But when you're gone and spending ends
When you're no longer wealthy, they will abandon you
They don't come no more
They won't show up anymore because you're no longer useful to them
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
Wealthy family members may give you small amounts of help
You can help yourself, but don't take too much
You should work hard to earn your own wealth, but don't become greedy or selfish
Here just don't worry about nothing cause he's got his own
Someone who has their own wealth doesn't have to worry about anything else
Yes, he's got his own
They have enough wealth to sustain themselves without relying on others
Contributed by Ella H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.