I am a Negro that's
what they say black
as night but must hide
in the day.

I am colored to those
who don't look within
they see with slave
mentality not the beauty
that transcends.

I am a singer of songs
blues to some bright
colors, hues to many,
carried my sorrows on 
my back, which was
plenty.

I've been a victim still
victimized by chains
still freedom rang in the
heart of a po black mans
hands but a song I sing.

I am a Negro black as
the night lynched from
trees in the Mississippi
breeze of a congo freeze
played in the black of 
hills as I conceal back
my fright.

I am just ragtime shadow
in the night.