School’s Out (by Leon Atkins - AKA Lil’ Jimmy Reed)

Lil’ Jimmy Reed draws upon his characteristically playful delivery of the lyrics which combines well with his slinky, finger snapping guitar rhythm as well as his expressive harmonica solo. The Project Preservation Band brings a laid back groove to this song which is complemented by funky rhythm guitar and David Adkins’ ragtime piano playing.

Featured Artist:

Lil’ Jimmy Reed (Lead Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica)

Project Preservation Band:

David Adkins ( Piano)

Tyler Brockett (Guitar)

Marcus Hart (Bass)

John Seals (Drums)

Song History:

“School’s Out” was written by Leon Atkins (AKA Lil’ Jimmy Reed) and was released on his 1996 album of the same name.  Like many of the best songs in music history, it was apparently written in just ten minutes. Lil’ Jimmy Reed explains that as he was finishing up the album in Birmingham, AL, the producers wanted one more original song. Lil’ Jimmy Reed confidently said that he could write a song quickly. He then left the control room and went to another part of the studio to write. He happened to gaze out the window and saw school children getting off a school bus and that gave him the original idea of “School’s Out”. He utilized various themes around getting out of school with references to summertime vacations and all the busses in the shop. Yet, always the paramour, Lil’ Jimmy Reed added lines like: “When I start loving baby, Honey - Lil’ Reed can’t stop.”

Lyrics:

School’s out baby

Where you going to spend your summertime?

School’s out baby

Where you going to spend your summertime?

You should be with Lil’ Reed baby

Tell him what’s on your mind

Take us on vacation baby

All the buses is in the shop

Take us on vacation baby

Busses in the shop

When I start loving baby

Lil’ Reed can’t stop

(Piano Solo)

Take us on vacation baby

All the busses in the shop

Take us on vacation baby

All the busses in the shop

When I start loving baby

Honey - Lil’ Reed can’t stop

School’s out baby

Where you going to spend your summertime?

School’s out baby

Where you going to spend your summertime?

You should be with Lil’ Reed baby

Tell him what’s on your mind

(Harmonica Solo)