Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say
If you do this it'll help you some sunny day

Oh, take your time, don't live too fast
Troubles will come and they will pass
You'll find a woman and you'll find love
Don't forget, son, there is someone up above

And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Baby be a simple kind of man
Won't you do this for me, son, if you can

Forget your lust for the rich man's gold
All that you need is in your soul
And you can do this, oh baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied

And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Yah, baby be a simple kind of man
Oh, won't you do this for me, son, if you can

Boy, don't you worry, you'll find yourself
Follow your heart and nothing else
And you can do this, oh baby, if you try
All that I want for you, my son, is to be satisfied

And be a simple kind of man
Oh, be something you love and understand
Yeah, baby be a simple kind of man
Won't you do this for me, son, if you can