We’ve updated our Terms of Use to reflect our new entity name and address. You can review the changes here.
We’ve updated our Terms of Use. You can review the changes here.

Crosses

from Promise by Karen Savoca

/

  • Streaming + Download

    Includes unlimited streaming via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
    Purchasable with gift card

      $1 USD  or more

     

  • Buy the Full Digital Album

  • Compact Disc (CD) + Digital Album

    Cover painting by Susan Bakkemo-Banks

    Includes unlimited streaming of Promise via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
    ships out within 7 days

      $13 USD or more 

     

lyrics

crosses

when the cavalry came to claim the land, and turn the natives to dust
with lies and whisky and an iron hand breaking every trust
some people died, some people fought to keep from being ravaged
they sent me to school where i was taught that they were savage

crosses on the side of the road, of the road
isn't it time the story be told
if we put up a sign where everyone was laid low
there'd be crosses everywhere we go
crosses everywhere we go

the slave ships docked all laden down, with frightened faces black & brown
to stand upon the auction block, like cattle in a stockyard
oh bitter fruit, oh sour cane the swollen womb, a mother's shame
in old history books how they danced and sang on their way to freedom

crosses on the side of the road, of the road
isn't it time the story be told
if we put up a sign where everyone was laid low
there'd be crosses everywhere we go
crosses everywhere we go

and hollywood was mexico, taken under fire
we let them back in to pick what we grow, and build the fences higher
the human hand that builds the cage, that locks you in and walks away
may never hear your tears of rage beware the keeper

grandfather died in a riverbed, face down from a blow to his head
they took his mother mary, his watch and chain
and left him there in the cold spring rain

when the president tries to tell the truth about mistakes made in our youth
there's condemnation from the other side apology denied

crosses on the side of the road, of the road
isn't it time the story be told
if we put up a sign where everyone was laid low
there'd be crosses everywhere we go
crosses everywhere we go


karen savoca - vocals, conga, shakere, ashiko
peter heitzman - electric and slide guitars, bass

written by karen savoca
© Alcove/BMI 2011

credits

from Promise, released March 15, 2011

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

Karen Savoca image

Karen Savoca Oneida, New York

Karen’s baby diary reads, "20 months, knows 6 songs." Her mother, a big band singer, was not surprised to find her constantly dancing and singing.

"A voice with this much strength and easy confidence is a rare find. Her songs are filled with good humor, sensuality and nature's simple pleasures. She can work a sly smile into a lyric that makes you smile in spite of yourself." All Music Guide ... more

contact / help

Contact Karen Savoca

Streaming and
Download help

Report this track or account

If you like Karen Savoca, you may also like:

Bandcamp Daily  your guide to the world of Bandcamp

On Bandcamp Radio

Saxophonist Isaiah Collier chats about his new LP and the influence of Pharoah Sanders.
listen now