She was just 16, had to quit high school
'Cause she just couldn't hack it
Hangin' out on New York streets
With a punk in a leather jacket

She likes to tease Manhattan queen
By the Johns in the discotheques
Burnin' hips to turn some tricks
Sellin' coke and bouncin' checks

Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times
Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times

She met a dude in a rock and roll band
That got her on the health board file
It ain't no fun in a dirty city
When you're wearin' a contagious smile

And now what's this jive 'bout stayin' alive?
I'm payin' my dues
She'll go the whole route till she finally checks out
And you can read it in the daily news

Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times
Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times

What's this jive 'bout stayin' alive?
She said: Man, I'm only payin' my dues (hmm-mm)
You go the whole route till you finally check out
I'll read it in the daily news

Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times
Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times

Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times
Street Mama, street Mama, look at yourself
You're livin' in the New York Times

Street mama, all right