I''ve been a waiter, a roofer, a clerk

I''ve shoveled manure till my pride hurt

When you''re starting out, it''s all part of the work

To do what I do

I''ve been evicted for not making rent

Made my Daddy wonder where my good sense went

For the price of a dream, my years have been spent

To do what I do



So I stand here tonight with this six string guitar

To be something I''ve always been in my heart

Just for the chance to play you my song

The thrill when I hear you singing along

It''s been worth everything I''ve been through

To do what I do



I''ve played for empty tables and chairs

The drunks that don''t listen, the crowds that dont care

Been told countless times Boy you ain''t goin'' nowhere

To do what I do



So I hope the critics and skeptics alike

All bought a ticket to this show tonight

And they''ll see firsthand that I have survived

And what doesn''t kill you makes you more alive

And I''m one of the fortunate few

To do what I do



There''s so much joy this music can bring

So I count my blessings when I step up to sing

Cause they''re so many people who would give anything

To do what I do



And I thank you

I can do what I do