Mama (Loves a Crackhead)

Album: Who Needs Actions When You Got Words (2006)
Charted: 41
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Ben Drew, aka Plan B, grew up in Forest Gate, northeast London, and was raised by his mother after his punk musician father left her when he was five months old. This song tells the story of his mum's relationship with a crack addict. Speaking with The Independent September 29, 2012, Drew said he doesn't regret putting it out, because "at the time it was the only way to change the situation." He added: "It was a piece of art that I'd created over a torment she'd put me through, not just through that period with that person, but throughout my whole childhood, with my stepfather as well."
  • The song samples Hall & Oates' 1982 hit, "I Can't Go for That (No Can Do)."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Philip Cody

Philip CodySongwriter Interviews

A talented lyricist, Philip helped revive Neil Sedaka's career with the words to "Laughter In The Rain" and "Bad Blood."

Michael Franti

Michael FrantiSongwriter Interviews

Franti tells the story behind his hit "Say Hey (I Love You)" and explains why yoga is an integral part of his lifestyle and his Soulshine tour.

Graham Parker

Graham ParkerSongwriter Interviews

When Judd Apatow needed under-appreciated rockers for his Knocked Up sequel, he immediately thought of Parker, who just happened to be getting his band The Rumour back together.

Dennis DeYoung

Dennis DeYoungSongwriter Interviews

Dennis DeYoung explains why "Mr. Roboto" is the defining Styx song, and what the "gathering of angels" represents in "Come Sail Away."

Chris Frantz of Talking Heads

Chris Frantz of Talking HeadsSongwriter Interviews

Talking Heads drummer Chris Frantz on where the term "new wave" originated, the story of "Naive Melody," and why they never recorded another cover song after "Take Me To The River."

Dar Williams

Dar WilliamsSongwriter Interviews

A popular contemporary folk singer, Williams still remembers the sticky note that changed her life in college.