I remember a funny man who used to make us laugh
But the proof of his truth--they cut his life in half
A caustic wit that cut a bit--opinions were too strong
He must have rubbed somebody wrong
Cuz he's long time gone
I remember a crucial man--played strat' with his left hand
Tunes he chose of "Gold and Roe" and "Castles Made of Sand"
Social ills--hi conscience willed a different type of song
Sang about "lead"--click, BANG! He's dead--he's long time gone
I remember an ebony prince who taught his brothers pride
Said the black man's loss--just another cross on which another prophet has died
Some people wanted them leaderless--a race of hungry pawns
Their solution to his revolution: To make him long time gone
Though some will object when you suspect
That they cause to affect the cause and effect