I often think of the life I've led
It's a wonder I ain't dead
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

My mother told me, father told me too
Someday, my child, it's gonna catch up with you
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

Though I've learned my lesson
Like all fools I've met
Yes, I've learned things in this world
I'd remember to my dying days

My father told me, mother said it right
Said my, child, you're ruinin' your life
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

My mother told me, father said it right
Said, Charles Brown, you're ruinin' your life
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

Livin' in a fool's paradise