Originally recorded in the sewing room of the women’s camp at Parchman Penitentiary in Mississippi on May 31, 1939, this song features the emotionally-charged voice of inmate Mattie Mae Thomas, singing “a made-up song, just about bein’ in prison, prison alone.”
from
A Yankee Clipper In Congo Square,
released March 15, 2018
Alan Berliant bass
Richie Davis electric guitar
Jim Gailloreto alto & tenor saxes, clarinet
Larry Glazier cello
Pete LaBella violin
Curt Morrison electric guitar
Steve Mullen piano, keys, synth, organ, sound design & drum programming
John Rice acoustic slide, telecaster & lap steel
Rob Stone harmonica
Jeff Thomas drums & percussion
Mattie Mae Thomas lead vocals “Workhouse Blues”
originally recorded in the sewing room of the womens’ quarters.
Parchman Prison, MS – May 31, 1939