In 2005, Sokyrka released These Old Charms, a collection including some of her favourite jazz standards, popular numbers she sang on Idol and three originals. It attained certified gold status last June, and was recently nominated for a Juno in the "Best Pop Album" category.
Her new CD, Something Is Expected, will hit stores on August 29th, 2006, and will contain tracks all written or co-written by Sokyrka herself.
God Bless This Child
Theresa Sokyrka Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Them that's not shall lose
So the Bible says and it still is news 'cause
Mama may have and papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
Yes the strong gets more
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade 'cause
Mama may have and papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
Oh yeah money, money you've got lots of friends
Hanging round your door
When you're gone and spending ends
We don't come round no more
Rich relations give
Crust of bread and such
You can help yourself
But don't take too much 'cause
Mama may have and papa may have
But God bless the child that's got his own
That's got his own
The lyrics of Theresa Sokyrka's song God Bless This Child address the theme of poverty and the importance of having one's own resources. The first stanza starts with the assertion that those who have will continue to accumulate more while those who do not have anything will continue to lose what little they have. The lyrics refer back to the Bible to suggest that this is a timeless message. The second line, "So the Bible says and it still is news," suggests that the reality of economic inequality remains relevant to contemporary listeners. The chorus of the song, "Mama may have and papa may have but God bless the child that's got his own," emphasizes that personal resources are valuable because they give individuals a sense of independence and security. The repetition of the phrase "that's got his own" reinforces the idea that having personal resources is important.
The second stanza further develops the idea of the haves and have-nots. The line "Empty pockets don't ever make the grade" suggests that financial hardship makes it difficult for individuals to succeed in life. The repeated phrase "Mama may have and papa may have" followed by the contrasting statement "But God bless the child that's got his own" once again portrays the contrast between those with resources and those without. The bridge of the song, "Oh yeah money, money you've got lots of friends" addresses the way relationships change depending on how wealthy someone is. It suggests that people who have a lot of money may attract friends who are only interested in their wealth, and these friends might not stick around when the money runs out. The final section of the song warns against taking too much from others, even if they are willing to share what they have. It suggests that having too much can lead to a loss of perspective and a lack of appreciation for what one has.
Line by Line Meaning
Them that's got shall get
Those who already have wealth and status will continue to receive more.
Them that's not shall lose
Those who do not have wealth and status will continue to lose out.
So the Bible says and it still is news 'cause
This concept has been present for a long time, as referenced in the Bible, and it still holds true today.
Mama may have and papa may have
Parents may have wealth or social status.
But God bless the child that's got his own
However, a child that is self-sufficient and independent is truly blessed by God.
Yes the strong gets more
Those who are already powerful or wealthy will continue to accumulate even more.
While the weak ones fade
Those who are not as fortunate will continue to struggle and suffer.
Empty pockets don't ever make the grade 'cause
Being financially destitute will not allow you to be successful or advance in life.
Oh yeah money, money you've got lots of friends
Money will attract acquaintances and social connections.
Hanging round your door
People will try to take advantage of you if you have money.
When you're gone and spending ends
If you lose your wealth, people will stop coming around.
We don't come round no more
People will not continue to have a relationship with you if you are no longer wealthy.
Rich relations give
Wealthy family members may give a small amount of aid or support.
Crust of bread and such
This aid or support may not be substantial or helpful in the long-term.
You can help yourself
However, you have the ability to take care of yourself and become self-sufficient.
But don't take too much 'cause
It's important to be independent, but not to the point of being greedy or taking advantage of others.
Mama may have and papa may have
Parents may have wealth or social status.
But God bless the child that's got his own
However, a child that is self-sufficient and independent is truly blessed by God.
Contributed by Alyssa J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
escribe96
Smooth. Reminds me of a modern day Rickie Lee Jones.