659. Stealin' (Traditional American)

The best known version of this song was first recorded by the Memphis Jug Band as "Stealin' Stealin'." in 1928 in Memphis, with Will Shade (harmonica), Vol Stevens (acoustic guitar), Ben Ramey (kazoo), and Jab Jones (vocals, jug). It was re-released in 1959. and has been the model for most renditions of the song since that time. The label credited Will Shade as the composer, and his publisher still holds the copyright, but the song is actually a compilation of much earlier lyrics. It has been covered by a number of great singers, including Bob Dylan and Lew Dite. Lyrics and chords: ... E ......... E7 Stealin', stealin', ............ A ................................ Am Pretty mama, don't you tell on me ........ E ...... B7 I'm stealin' back to my E ...... E7.. A ... Am E Same old used to be. .......... E Now, put your arms around me ........... E7 Like a circle round the sun .... A I want ya to love me, mama Like my easy rider done ........................ E .. B7 E If you don't believe I love ya ........................... B7... E Look what a fool I've been .................................... B7. E If you don't believe I'm sinkin' ............................ B7 E Look what a hole I'm in The woman I'm lovin' She just my height and size She's a married woman Come to see me sometimes She likes to give me honey. She gives me ev'rything she's got She always feeds me honey From the sweetest honey pot. Hungry for your lovin, I'm a-starvin' for your touch Won't you climb up in the saddle, Quit your talkin' so much. The woman I'm a-lovin', She always treats me bad She spent all of my money, Took everything I had. Lyrics and chords of many of my songs are no longer available, as my website has expired. I am currently posting lyrics to the information panels on all my videos and those that are too long to post in full will be found on my new website: https://raymondsfolkpage.wordpress.com

Added 22 May 2026