If I had my way I would not be here  Not for one day, my leaving is clear  I've had my share of heartache and pain  For happiness I'm searching in vain  I've got to get rid of my ball and chain  For all of my life, the times they've been bad  And hard luck and strife, they're all I've ever had  I've had my share of heartache and pain  For happiness I'm searching in vain  I've got to get rid of my ball and chain  I've just got to be free  God in heaven, help me  If I had my way I would not, would not be here  No, not for one day, my leaving, my leaving is clear  I've had my share of heartache and pain  For happiness I'm searching in vain  I've got to get rid of my ball and chain  Help me!  I've had my share of heartache and pain  For happiness I'm searching in vain  I've got to get rid of my ball and CHAIN!