My old buddy Jamal called me up, Saturday morn Said, “Come on over, brother, the grill’s already warm” I grabbed my cooler, loaded up what I know best Prime rib-roast n’ spare-ribs, marinade two whole days
Threw in a bottle of rum, straight from an island store Drove on down to his place, knowin sure what’s in store
It was loud, an’ it was festive, it was community Different worlds together, like it oughta be From my ribs, their chicken, beer and garage brew That’s the kinda day you know what friends can do
Pulled up the house, music bumpin’ from the speakers loud Kids chasin’ each other, uncles talkin’ proud Jamal hugged my neck, said, “Man, you made it here!”
Introduced me to cousins, aunts, everybody near Nana spotted me quick, with a smile wide as the sky “Come here baby, try the greens. What you think?” A hug so warm. You must feel her soul. Can’t pass her by
It was loud, an’ it was festive, it was community Different worlds together, like it oughta be From my ribs, their spicy chicken, beer and garage brew That’s the kinda day you know what friends can do
She kept comin’ back with more cornbread hot from the pan “This is magnificent, mmm, Nana Mabel.”
I loosen my belt buckle right there at the table My belly was burstin’, but my heart fuller and grateful In that sea of good people, there’s somethin’ wonderful…
Yeah, It was loud, an’ it was festive, it was community Thirty folks in the backyard, laughin’ wild and free ‘Comon Chuck, you ain’t done yet
Collard greens and watermelon, okra simmerin’ in the stew Chicken sizzlin’ in the oil, beer for me and you Red juice flowin’ for the kids, runnin’ ‘round in the sun
Nana pilin’ my plate, said, “Boy, you ain’t done” It’s wisdom ya know… from Nana you don’t run
At Nana’s backyard cookouts, we set the world straight again