Lyric discussion by Libraquarius 

Cover art for Summertime lyrics by Big Brother & The Holding Company

This version differs from the Gershwin original, not just in the lyrical content, but also in the style. I sing the original while I work (along with a great number of numbers), and could not possibly get myself around Janis' version. It is so damn soulful; I hope I never get so low, and wonder if I can get that high.