McShann was born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and began working as a professional musician in 1931, performing around Tulsa, Oklahoma and neighboring Arkansas. He moved to Kansas City, Missouri in 1936, and set up his own big band, which featured Charlie Parker (from 1937 to 1942), Bernard Anderson, Ben Webster and Walter Brown. Although its book included both swing and blues numbers, the band played blues on most of its records; its most popular recording was "Confessin' the Blues." The group disbanded when McShann was drafted into the Army in 1944, and he was unable to successfully restart it when he got out.
After the war McShann began to lead small groups featuring blues shouter Jimmy Witherspoon. Witherspoon started recording with McShann in 1945, and fronting McShann's band, had a hit in 1949 with "Ain't Nobody's Business." McShann then played in obscurity until 1969, when he became popular as a singer as well as a pianist, often performing with Claude Williams. He continued recording and touring through the 1990s. Well into his 80s McShann still performed occasionally, particularly in the Kansas City area and Toronto Ontario.
Crime-fiction writer Elmore Leonard featured McShann as a character in his 2005 novel, The Hot Kid.
On December 7, 2006, McShann died at St. Luke's Hospital in Kansas City.
Keepin' Out of Mischief Now
Jay McShann Lyrics
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If you're not by my side,
I stay home by my radio,
But I'm satisfied!
All my flirtin' days are gone,
On the level from now on!
Don't go for any excitement now,
All my opinions have changed somehow,
Old-fashioned as can be!
When you really learn to care,
There's a thrill in solitaire!
Keepin' ou of mischief now,
Really am in love, and how!
I'm through playing with fire,
It's you whom I desire!
All the world can plainly see
You're the only one for me!
I've told them in advance
They can't break up our romance!
Living up to every vow,
I'm keepin' out of mischief now!
All the world can plainly see
That you're the only one for me!
Say I've told them, told them in advance
That they can't break up our romance!
Living up to every vow,
I'm keepin', keepin' out of mischief now!
The lyrics of "Keepin' Out of Mischief Now" by Jay McShann speak about the singer's newfound love and their dedication to staying loyal to their partner. They refuse to engage in any activity that may lead to temptation, such as going to the movies alone or seeking excitement elsewhere. Instead, they find comfort in simply being near their partner or listening to the radio. The singer reflects on their past flirtations and declares that they are over and have turned a new leaf. They are content with their current state of being and find joy in being faithful to their partner.
The lyrics showcase the singer's desire to remain faithful, despite any challenges that may come their way. They are determined to keep their relationship intact and have informed others of their intentions. Their commitment to keeping their vow is unwavering, and they find solace in the simple pleasures of love and companionship. The lyrics highlight the importance of loyalty, trust, and dedication in a romantic relationship and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Line by Line Meaning
Don't even go to a movie show
I don't want to do anything without you
If you're not by my side
Without your presence, nothing feels enjoyable
I stay home by my radio
I find comfort in listening to music at home
But I'm satisfied!
I don't need anything else as long as I have you
All my flirtin' days are gone
I have given up on playing games with others
On the level from now on!
I am committed and sincere with you moving forward
Don't go for any excitement now
I prefer a quiet and peaceful life now
Books are my best company
I find solace in reading and gaining knowledge
All my opinions have changed somehow
My perspective on life has shifted and evolved
Old-fashioned as can be!
I appreciate traditional values and ways of living
When you really learn to care
True concern and affection for someone brings a special feeling
There's a thrill in solitaire!
Spending time alone can be enjoyable and exciting
Keepin' out of mischief now
I am devoted to you and staying out of trouble
Really am in love, and how!
My love for you is real and passionate
I'm through playing with fire
I've learned my lesson from risky behavior or relationships
It's you whom I desire!
You are the one I truly want
All the world can plainly see
Everyone knows that I'm yours and you're mine
You're the only one for me!
There is no one else who can compare to you
I've told them in advance
I have warned others that they cannot interfere with our relationship
They can't break up our romance!
No one and nothing can tear us apart
Living up to every vow
I am dedicated to fulfilling every promise I have made to you
I'm keepin' out of mischief now!
I am devoted to you and our love, and avoiding any temptations or distractions
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Andy Razaf, Thomas 'Fats' Waller
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind