Tell me, my father, tell me how long
Will boys keep dyin' for freedom's song
Before we find a place to belong
Tell me, my father, how long?

Won't bow to no man, I got my pride
This dream I'm dreamin' can't be denied
How long till I can sing freedom's song?
Tell me, my father, how long?

I cry my tears
The same as any man you see
So God, please tell me why
This man ain't free

How long till I can sing freedom's song?
Tell me, my father, how long?

No more this darkness
Bring me the light
Show me your mornin' cast off this night
How long till I can sing freedom's song?

Tell me my father
Tell me my father
Tell me my father, how long?