Random Black Girl

I’m not like the other girls in this show
I’m something of a sore thumb
I’m starting to think that I’m different
And I suspect I know how come

My complexion stands out
And my voice does as well
Cause in case you haven’t noticed
I’m black as hell

It’s an obligatory part of every new musical
It’s the random black girl singin’ the soul

Every show must have an ensemble
Without it things wouldn’t be right
And every crowd needs at least one person
Who doesn’t happen to be white

Well, that girl is usually me
Feels like I’m just filling a quota
Anytime I ever have lines
They’re “yes’m”, and “yessir” and “nosa’”

When it comes to the plot I play no significant role
I’m just a random black girl singin’ the soul

So, I conduct with my hands
And I’ll squinch up my eyes
And then I’ll open my mouth
Unbelievably wide

And at the end of the song
When it’s time to let go
I’ll give ‘em a dose
Of my crazy vibrato

Why couldn’t I be cast for a part in The Color Purple
‘Stead of a random black girl singin’ the soul?

My agent gave me advice
Those words I’ll never forget
He said “Don’t think you’ll ever be cast
As Eponine or Cossette.”

But I guess things always could be worse
When it comes to my Broadway station
At least I’m not cursed
Enough to have been born Asian

Then I’d be stuck in Miss Saigon dancing on a pole
Stead of the random black girl singin’ the soul

The designers can’t light me
Director don’t know my name
And the make up artist thinks
That we all wear the same…shade

And Mr. Stage Manager
Thinks I got too much sass
The costumer don’t know what to do
With my big old black—-hair

Maybe I should audition for American Idol
They love the random black girl singin’ the soul

So what does this song change?
Well, not a relevant thing
But you gotta be thinkin’ to yourself
“Goddamn, this sister can sing”

Don’t you hate it when songs are so self-referential?
I’m a random black girl singin’ the…

Don’t stop me now, cause baby I’m on a roll
I’m the random black girl singin’ the…

I can make an entire phrase out of one syllable
Cause I’m a random black girl singin’ the soul