[Verse 1]

Oh, mama told me when I was young

"Come sit beside me, my only son

And listen closely to what I say

And if you do this, it'll help you some sunny day"

[Break]

"Be a simple man"

[Verse 2]

Oh, take your time, don’t live too fast

Troubles will come and they will pass

You'll find a woman, oh yeah, and you'll find love

And don’t forget son, there is someone up above

[Chorus]

And be a simple kind of man

Oh be something you love and understand

Baby be a simple kind of man

Oh, won't you do this for me son, if you can?

[Verse 3]

Forget your lust for the rich man's gold

All that you need is in your soul

And you can do this, oh baby, if you try

All that I want for you my son is to be satisfied

[Chorus]

And be a simple kind of man

Oh be something you love and understand

Baby be a simple kind of man

Oh, won't you do this for me son if you can?

[Bridge]

Oh yes I will

[Verse 4]

Boy, don't you worry, you'll find yourself

Follow your heart, lord, and nothing else

And you can do this, oh baby, if you try

All that I want for you my son is to be satisfied

[Chorus]

And be a simple kind of man

Oh be something, you love and understand

Baby be a simple kind of man

Oh, won't you do this for me son if you can?