[Verse]
I walked the fire with my bare feet
Each step a scar that time won't cheat
They called me lost
They called me weak
But I found gold in the words I speak
[Prechorus]
No shortcuts
No lucky breaks
Every fall was the price it takes
[Chorus]
I paid my dues
I earned my name
Through the storms
Through the shame
Brick by brick
I built my frame
I paid my dues
I'm not the same
[Verse 2]
The rain hit hard but I stood tall
They bet I'd crumble
They'd watch me fall
But roots run deep when you've lost it all
Now I stand proud
Now I stand whole
[Prechorus]
No handouts
No easy roads
Every bruise is the strength I hold
[Chorus]
I paid my dues
I earned my name
Through the storms
Through the shame
Brick by brick
I built my frame
I paid my dues
I'm not the same