Born under a bad sign
I been down since I began to crawl
If it wasn't for bad luck
I wouldn't have no luck at all

Hard luck and trouble been my only friend
I been down ever since I was ten

Born under a bad sign
I been down since I begin to crawl
If it wasn't for bad luck
I wouldn't have no luck at all

I can't read; I can hardly write
My whole life has been one big fight

Born under a bad sign
I been down since I begin to crawl
If it wasn't for bad luck
I wouldn't have no luck at all

Hard luck and trouble, all I crave to you
A big legged woman gonna carry me to an early grave

Born under a bad sign
I been down since I begin to crawl
If it wasn't for bad luck
I wouldn't have no luck
If it wasn't for real bad luck
Lord, I wouldn't have no luck at all