Funk

The song “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf)” was written by Sly Stone and released as a double A-side (that is, both sides were designated as an A-Side) with “Everybody is a Star.”In 1969, the song went to the #1 slot on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, U.S. Cashbox, and the U.S. R&B Chart.  The song is on Rolling Stone magazine’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” It’s certainly part of 1960s music in celebrating authentic individuality against societal pressures. The Sly and The Family Stone band originated in San Francisco. They recorded songs in many genres, including funk, psychedelic soul, rock, soul, pop, funk rock, and R&B. Sly Stone, a multi-talented musician, songwriter, and producer, headed this group of family members and friends. They had an integrated, multi-gender lineup. This reflected their philosophy of love, peace, and understanding among all peoples. Over the years, there were many membership changes, but at this, it was Sly Stone, Freddie Stone, Cynthia Robinson, Jerry Martini, Larry Graham, Greg Errico, Rose Stone. Little Sister provided background vocals (i.e., Vet Stone, Mary McCreary, and Elva Mouton).

Here are the lyrics to “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf)” by Sly and The Family Stone”:

“Lookin’ at the devil, grinnin’ at his gun
Fingers start shakin’, I begin to run
Bullets start chasin’, I begin to stop
We begin to wrestle I was on the top

I want to thank you falettinme be mice elf agin
Thank you falettinme be mice elf agin

Stiff all in the collar, fluffy in the face
Chit chat chatter tryin’, stuffy in the place
Thank you for the party but I could never stay
Many things is on my mind, words in the way

I want to thank you falettinme be mice elf agin
Thank you falettinme be mice elf agin

Dance to the music
All night long
Everyday people
Sing a simple song
Mama’s so happy
Mama start to cry
Papa still singin’
We can make it if we try

I want to thank you falettinme be mice elf agin
Thank you falettinme be mice elf agin

Flamin’ eyes of people fear, burnin’ into you
Many men are missin’ much, hatin’ what they do
Youth and truth are makin’ love
Dig it for a starter
Dyin’ young is hard to take
Sellin’ out is harder
I want to thank you falettinme be mice elf agin
Thank you falettinme be mice elf agin…”

For other songs by Sly and The Family Stone: “Everyday People” and “Hot Fun in the Summertime.”

Check Out The Groove Pad for More 1960s Music

The Pass the Paisley Groove Pad is a resting stop, a place to chill out and listen to the featured song on the stereo. If the mood strikes you, click on the juke box to access and listen to the 40+ songs there. The TV has several channels, with selections updated twice a week. Every now and then, Pass the Paisley hosts an all-request of 1960s and 1970s songs for a Be-In at the juke box in the Groove Pad. Keep on truckin’. Hope you enjoyed “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)” by Sly and The Family Stone.