Nellie McKay - Testify lyrics

As we approach fair weather

As we entertain our maiden endeavor

'Round us still the chorus beats

The schools, the streets

There's always danger there

For men will divest

Only to a certain point

For each divines their own experience

And to our own

We must attest

They say authority's essential

They are insincere

They say discipline is fundamental

You will perservere

And when you've lost your fear

Then that's when you must

Testify

Raise your hands up to the sky

Clouds are comin' closer, but a-don't you cry

Because you ain't got time

Just keep on strivin', testifyin'

Testify

Raise your hands up to the sky

Clouds are comin' closer, but a-don't you cry

Because you ain't got time

Just keep on strivin', testifyin'

As you pack the tools of past illusions

You have lost your nerve

Set them near you, lest they cause confusion

Keep some in reserve

To get what you deserve

You're gonna have to

Testify

Raise your hands up to the sky

Clouds are comin' closer, but a-don't you cry

Because you ain't got time

Just keep on strivin', testifyin'

Testify

Raise your hands up to the sky

Clouds are comin' closer, but a-don't you cry

Because you ain't got time

Just keep on strivin', testifyin'

Mama, you got me my corduroy jeans

"Do your own laundry if you want them clean"

Mama, the workload they're puttin' me through

"Like I don't know"

Mama, you got me history books

"Yeah, and I thought me I'd take me a look"

But doesn't matter what you do or say

Because it ain't my history anyway

Feast or famine, you're cryin' at the disco

You have lost your way

The peace they were plannin' died in San Francisco

Floating on the bay

Just close your eyes and pray

Then stand up straight and

Testify

Raise your hands up to the sky

Clouds are comin' closer, but a-don't you cry

Because you ain't got time

Just keep on strivin', testifyin'