Nobody knows about the jailhouse blues till you get within four walls The old jailer man turns the big black keys that's when your spirit falls Then you drag yourself up to the bars and while you gaze out at the stars This is what you'll say Why did I stray from the righteous path nobody knows but me There on the outside you often dare I don't need your sympathy For after I paid for the liquor I stole I'll leave this place with no way and gold Why did I stray from the righteous path nobody knows but me [ Ac.guitar ] When you realize that you're all alone seated in a two by four That little cell is just a taste of hell if you ain't been there before You're locked up tight but they treat you fair You gave everything that you need in there That's just why you'll say Why did I stray...