Things I used to do

They said I’d fail, just a kid with a view

Told me, “Grow up, that won’t help you”

Dreams in my hands, they tore in two

Now the world eats off the things I used to do

Used to draw faces, fill notebooks fast

Cartoons, logos — said it wouldn’t last

Banged on desks, built beats in class

But they told me, “That won’t get you cash”

Filmed little skits, posted for fun

Wrote my own stories, shared ‘em with none

They said, “It’s cute, but get real soon”

So I boxed my passion and changed my tune

Now I see kids livin’ the dream

Doing the things that once fueled me

Hard to watch, but it’s not new

They’re winning with the things I used to do

Things I used to do, now they gettin’ paid

For every song, every sketch I made

Told me stop, said it wouldn't last

Now they run with what I left in the past

Things I used to do, now they call it gold

While I was told to do what I’m told

I gave it up to follow their cue

Now they shine off the things I used to do

Used to freestyle, write rhymes alone

Recorded hooks on a cracked up phone

Sewed my own tees, had style and name

They laughed and said, “That’s just a game”

Tried dance moves, taught myself how

Made flips go viral before it was allowed

They shook their heads, made me feel small

So I stepped back and let it all fall

Now I scroll and it’s all right there

What I gave up is now everywhere

It’s not hate, it’s just the view

Of the world loving what I used to do

Things I used to do, now they gettin’ paid

For every song, every sketch I made

Told me stop, said it wouldn't last

Now they run with what I left in the past

Things I used to do, now they call it gold

While I was told to do what I’m told

I gave it up to follow their cue

Now they shine off the things I used to do

I made beats from mouth, no gear, no guide

Built small brands they all denied

Scripts, designs, music and flair

They said, “Forget it, nobody cares”

So I buried it all, followed the plan

Now it’s all poppin’ in someone else’s hand

Can't go back, but I still feel

That everything I dropped was real

Now I tell kids, “Hold on tight”

What they shame today might change your life

Don’t let go 'cause they laugh at you

I lived that pain — I know it’s true

Things I used to do, now they gettin’ paid

For every song, every sketch I made

Told me stop, said it wouldn't last

Now they run with what I left in the past

Things I used to do, now they call it gold

While I was told to do what I’m told

I gave it up to follow their cue

Now they shine off the things I used to do

So dream your dream and make it through

Don’t let 'em kill the things you do