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lyrics

Taking It Back JByrd

The lottery's twenty million. You have to play to win. The factory girls are shopping for their kids.
This side of town is pretty safe this time of the day. Even Jesus couldn't tell the truth and live.
I got debts I can't pay. Sorry, try again. Ain't nobody hiring guys like me.
Three hot meals a day if I break parole. Something's got to give and nothing's free.

I've seen the light. I'm not taking it. I'm taking it back.

I love a fast woman. You have to play to win. I hope she doesn't turn the engine off.
There's a camera in the window that can't see my situation. I don't know what to do about these dogs.
I spend a dime to make a nickel. Sorry, try again. I never hurt nobody in my life.
I'm buying one last ticket and taking off the safety. I'll go over of I can't get by.

I've seen the light. I'm not taking it. I'm taking it back.

That's the story of my life. Sorry, try again. I might as well not even use the mask.
This guy knows my name. Hell, he don't get the money. If he's friendly enough, I'll give him half.
That leaves one last dollar. You have to play to win. I'll stuff it in the box for kids in need.
There's a thirty gallon can down at this end of the counter, slap full of receipts for empty dreams.

I've seen the light. I'm not taking it. I'm taking it back.

credits

from Jonathan Byrd & The Pickup Cowboys, released November 16, 2018

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Jonathan Byrd Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Preacher's kid, Gulf War veteran, award-winning songwriter, Youtuber, teacher, and creativity coach from North Carolina.

“One of the top 50 songwriters of the last 50 years. ” — Chicago Tribune

“...a folk singer with the heart of a rock 'n' roll band.” — K. Oliver, Free Times.
... more

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