"Pretty baby grew into a lady
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby
In the light of the dawn
A pretty babe was born
Her mother, she had sworn
To take good care of her
Every night Mom would pray
Her life would not be torn
Her clothes would not be worn
Until they dropped off of her
My child, you dear
Don't have no fear, I'll shed the tears
Keep your head clear, my pretty baby
Pretty baby grew into a lady
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby
Little girl, I want you to attend the finest schools
And never be a fool, I've got experience
Learn all that you can, you'll find that in the end
You'll learn how to depend on yourself
It makes me glad
You have the things I didn't have
Never be sad, my pretty baby
Pretty baby grew into a lady
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby grew into a lady
Pretty baby grew into a lady
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby
Pretty baby grew into a lady
Pretty baby grew into a lady
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
The people don't know
What your mama know, they don't
Pretty baby
"