From Hell To Paradise
The Mavericks Lyrics

For thirty years they sang the song of promised victory
For three decades they sang of triumph and glory, but their battles and victories were insignificant to me.

But who they've fought and who has won
It doesn't matter who they have fought against or who has emerged victorious.

Didn't matter much to me
It was not of much importance to me.

I see them driving down the streets
I observe them driving their fancy cars on the streets.

In their fancy shiny cars
They drive luxurious cars that shine brightly.

Crowds of people to their feet
Crowds of people gather around them to see and cheer them.

Their faces full of scars
Despite their notable accomplishments, they bear signs of pain or injury.

No pleasantries, no luxuries
They are deprived of any kindness or luxury.

No little children's mild
They have not had the pleasure of experiencing a child's innocent sweetness.

While minister's wives spent all their lives
Ministers' wives have spent their entire lives doing something else.

In China's finest silk
They have enjoyed the highest quality silks from China for clothing.

My back's been broken many times
I have had my back injured or broken several times.

But my spirit lingers on
Regardless of the setbacks, I remain resilient and determined.

The day it comes my way on freedom's ship
When the opportunity arises to leave for a freer place, I will embark on it.

I will be gone
I will have left that place for good.

This ninety mile trip has taken thirty years to make
It has taken thirty years to complete a journey that is only ninety miles long.

They tried to keep forever what was never theirs to take
They attempted to permanently keep something that they never owned in the first place.

I cursed and scratched the Devil's hand
I cursed and physically attacked the Devil who represented evil and oppression.

As he stood in front of me
He stood directly in front of me.

One last drag for his big cigar
He took one last puff from his large cigar before the encounter ended.

And he finally set me free
And he finally allowed me to escape from my torment and oppression.

From hell to paradise
I have transitioned from a place of misery to one of happiness.

I'll always pay the price
However, I always have to pay a cost for my freedom.

Con ojos tiernos algun dia te mirare
With tender eyes, someday I'll look at you.

Con brasos abiertos algun dia abrasare
With open arms, someday I'll embrace you.

Hay me havana cuando pueda regresare
Oh, Havana, I will return when I am able.