Name: 20-20 Blues
Duration: P00H02M30S
Description: Recorded during the original 1948 Des Moines sessions, "20-20 Blues" features Deafman's early use of plunking bass, plucked chords, and tinny vocals. In this early recording, Deafman refers to his "near legally blind" vision, including his failed attempts to join the Army and Navy during WWII. Originally released in 1949 as a 78 RPM on the Conquistador label.

20-20 Blues

from The Best of Blind Willie Deafman by Blind Willie Deafman

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Recorded during the original 1948 Des Moines sessions, "20-20 Blues" features Deafman's early use of plunking bass, plucked chords, and tinny vocals. In this early recording, Deafman refers to his "near legally blind" vision, including his failed attempts to join the Army and Navy during WWII. Originally released in 1949 as a 78 RPM on the Conquistador label.

lyrics

I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
All the doctors in Iowa sure can’t help my sight.

I shoot my rifle, and I can’t hit the broadside wall.
I shot my pistol, but I can’t hit the broadside wall.
If we get in trouble, I believe I’m be no use at all.

I’d have joined the Army, but I failed my vision check.
I’d have joined the Navy, but I failed my vision check.
Well Sergeant says, “Son, the marines will have you yet.”

I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
All the doctors in Iowa sure can’t help my sight.

I saw my baby on the crossside of the street.
I called for my baby on the other side of the street.
When I get up close, she’s a stranger I’d never meet.

I called for my baby. She’s kneeling by my bed.
Well, I called for my baby. She’s kneeling at my bed.
When I lean in close, it’s Rover there instead.

I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
I’ve got 20-20 vision, but I still can’t see just right.
All the doctors in Iowa sure can’t help my sight.

credits

from The Best of Blind Willie Deafman, track released November 26, 1949
Johnson/Deafman

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