Standard (EADGBE)

My mother sang the sweetest melody

although she never sang in a musical key.

 I would hear her through the house.

My name called out loud.

My mother sang the sweetest melody.

 My mother's hands were always cool and soft.

And like her eyes, they would caress with every touch.

She would listen to my chatter

 as if every word I spoke mattered.

She'd hold me close and whisper in my ear.

 She'd say, "girl, you are a part of me

and I have made you strong.

when you grow up and are on your own

 remem- ber to win them with your song."

My father sang in perfect harmony.

And though he never sang in a musical key

 You could hear him when he'd enter the house

 the kiss he'd give my Ma.

My father sang in perfect harmony.

 My father's words were always sure and clear

and like his presence they would rid me of my fears.

And when I crawled up on his knees

 I was safe as I could be.

He'd hold me tight and whisper in my ear.

 He'd say, "girl, you are a part of me

and I have made you strong

when you grow up and are on your own

 remem- ber to win them with your song."

My mother sang the sweetest melody,

although she never sang in a musical key.