For thirty years they sang the song of promised victory
But who they've fought and who has won didn't matter much to me
I see them driving down the streets in their fancy shiny cars
Crowds of people to their feet, their faces full of scars

No pleasantries, no luxuries, no little children's milk
While minister's wives spent all their lives in China's finest silk
My back's been broken many times but my spirit lingers on
The day it comes my way on freedom's ship I will be gone

From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price
From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price

This ninety mile trip has taken thirty years to make
They tried to keep forever what was never theirs to take
I cursed and scratched the devil's hand as he stood in front of me
One last drag from his big cigar and he finally set me free

From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price
From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price

From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price
From hell to paradise
I'll always pay the price

Con ojos tiernos algun dia te mirare
Con brases abiertos algun dia abrasare
Hay mi Havana cuando pueda regresare

(Translation)
With tender eyes someday I'll look at you
With open arms someday I'll embrace you
My old Havana someday I will return