On a Mississippi mornin’
My dad yelled out a warnin’
Son you better hit that cotton patch soon
And on my way down to the field
As I passed Old Johnson’s Mill
I saw Becky Morgan, skinny dippin’ nude.
Well I couldn’t help but stop and stare
Hypnotized I stood right there
Enchanted by the beauty that I’d seen
Then she gave me a come in smile
Nearly drove my body wild
I fell down tryin’ to kick off my jeans.
[Chorus]
Well on that cotton pickin’ mornin’
I met up with Becky Morgan
You know that day I didn’t get to work on time
And in the days of my December
I know I both remember
Sowin’ oats at Cotton Pickin’ Time.
Well I lost my job that summer
But I guess I had it comin’
Cause that pickin’ cotton just wasn’t on my mind
But you don’t need too much money
When you got a Tupelo honey
Keepin’ you cool in the Mississippi hot sunshine.
[Chorus 2]
And every cotton pickin’ mornin’
I met up with Becky Morgan
The whole dang I never get to work on time
And in the days of my December
I know I both remember
Sowin’ oats at Cotton Pickin’ Time.
We’ve come a long way since then
Now I own that cotton gin
And I bought that mill
Just to make her smile
And to keep our love from growin’ old
We still go down there to that hole
Skinny dip and Becky is just as wild.
[Chorus 3]
And every cotton pickin’ mornin’
I wake up with Becky Morgan
And to this day I never get to work on time
And in the days of our December
I know we’ll both remember
Sowin’ oats at Cotton Pickin’ Time.
[2x]
We were sowin’ oats at Cotton Pickin’ Time
We were sowin’ oats at Cotton Pickin’ Time.
Nostalgia and Young Love in the Fields
“Cotton Pickin’ Time” by Blake Shelton is a playful and nostalgic look back at youthful summers in the Mississippi countryside. The song masterfully captures the innocence and thrill of first love, as the narrator recalls his encounters with Becky Morgan, trading chores for fleeting moments of romance by the river. The vivid storytelling transports listeners to sun-drenched cotton fields and secret swimming holes, reminding us of the excitement and recklessness of youth. The recurring chorus emphasizes the lasting impact of these memories, suggesting that some moments are too sweet to ever grow old.
Growth, Commitment, and Lifelong Passion
As the lyrics progress, the narrative shifts from youthful mischief to adult fulfillment. The protagonist not only matures but also takes ownership of his life, both in work and in love. Owning the cotton gin and the mill for Becky signifies deep commitment, while their continued adventures reflect a love that remains passionate and unrestrained. The song ultimately celebrates the enduring power of shared memories and the joy of holding on to life’s simple pleasures.
Song Credits
Artist: Blake Shelton
Release Year: 2004
Label: Warner Bros. Nashville