Poor Black Mattie

R.L. Burnside

Tuning: Spanish - Eb Ab Eb Ab C Eb
Date transcribed:
September 14, 2025
Reference audio: YouTube
Video lesson: YouTube

i. Sheet music / tablature

Transcribed by Blahnok

ii. Slow-downer / pitch shifter

iii. Notes

This R.L. Burnside song is in Spanish tuning, and may be the most recognizable song by the artist.

iv. Lyrics

Poor Black Mattie ain't got a change in clothes
Girl got drunk, close that door
Poor Black Mattie ain't got change o' clothes
Girl got drunk, throwed her clothes outdoor

Goin' to Memphis, see the World's Fair
Reason I'm goin', baby, there
Goin' to Memphis, see the World's Fair
Reason I'm goin', know my baby there

Need no heater fireplace by my bed
Women I got cherry red
Need no heater fireplace by my bed
Woman I got, keep me cherry red
Woman I got, keep me cherry red