Chick’ll Beat It

Born into poverty and illness in 1905 in Baltimore, William Henry "Chick" Webb overcame it all to become a hugely successful drummer and band leader. "Chick'll Beat It" is a 4-part SATB jazz piece in honor of his inspirational life.

Lyrics:

Who’s that baby? Looks like something’s wrong.
Mom thinks maybe he won’t last for long.
Doctor in the white coat says,
"Spinal tuberculosis;"
Looks like he’s defeated.
Baby says, "Sickness? Chick’ll beat it!"

Who’s that newsboy saving all that comes,
Hoping soon to buy a set of drums?
Saving nickel by nickel,
Working through thin or thick ‘til
His goal is completed.
Newsboy says, "Poverty? Chick’ll beat it!"

Who’s that drummer playing the Savoy,
The bandleader of Ella and the boys?
Other bands may do battle;
Chick’ll make ‘em skedaddle.
As on high he’s seated,
Drummer says, "Basie and his band?
Benny and his band? The Duke and his band?
Any other band? Chick’ll beat it!"

Pain tries to stop him. When he’s only thirty
He’s in Johns Hopkins for a major surgery.
Body’s tired and folks fear it
Can’t keep up with his spirit.
This time the answer’s no,
So Chick says, "I’m sorry, I’ve got to go."

© 2010, Daniel C. Meyer