Mama Told Me
Smokey Robinson and The Miracles Lyrics

The lyrics to Smokey Robinson and The Miracles's song "Mama Told Me" convey a powerful message about the importance of choosing your company wisely and being cautious of those who may try to take advantage of you. The opening line "cye... it's BLEU" suggests that the singer is emphasizing their point with conviction and certainty.

The next line, "You know it's a bunch of Mack and Hang ish," refers to the presence of manipulative and deceitful individuals seeking personal gain. The term "Mack" typically denotes someone who is slick and charming, using their charm to manipulate others. "Hang ish" likely refers to people who are constantly hanging around, trying to gain something from their association with others.

The repeated refrain of "Momma told me watch the company you keep" highlights the advice given by the singer's mother. The mother urges her child to be cautious about the people they associate with, as some may have ulterior motives. The lyric "People that's around be tryna live off in your dreams" suggests that some individuals may want to exploit the singer's ambitions and use them for their own benefit.

The line "N****** in your circle won't be there when you in need" implies that the people the singer considers close and trustworthy might not be reliable when support is truly needed. This line reinforces the idea that not everyone who claims to be a friend will stand by you during difficult times. The repetition of the phrase "Momma told me" emphasizes the importance of the mother's advice and the lasting impact it has on the singer.

Overall, through these lyrics, Smokey Robinson and The Miracles highlight the significance of being careful in choosing companions and being mindful of those who might exploit one's dreams or seek personal gain. The song serves as a reminder to prioritize genuine connections and to remain cautious of individuals who may not have your best interests at heart, drawing upon the wisdom and guidance of a mother figure.