

Prompt / Lyrics
[Verse 1] She’s up before the buses Dark outside the kitchen glass Folds her apron in her backpack Breath in Count the cash Same shoes Second shift Coffee in a paper cup Reads the note her daughter left “Mom I’m never giving up” [Chorus] This is survival Slow burn Long night Just trying to live Not die Holding up the sky with tired hands Every dollar Every mile This is survival But she still finds a way to smile [Verse 2] He clocks in past sundown Says “I’ll take whatever’s left” Laughs it off like it’s a game Treats the long hours like a test Grease stains on his knuckles Phone light on her name Scrolls her cap and gown on screen Whispers “You’re the one I’m doing this for” (yeah) [Chorus] This is survival Slow burn Long night Just trying to live Not die Holding up the sky with aching hands Every dollar Every mile This is survival But he still finds a way to smile [Bridge] Rent due Lights due Hearts due a little rest They trade sleep for semesters Trade fear for one more step She says “Baby Keep on going” He says “Baby Take your time” Two worn-out dreamers Building you a different life [Chorus] This is survival Slow burn Long night Just trying to live Not die Holding up the sky with shaking hands Every dollar Every mile This is survival You’re the reason they can smile [Outro] So walk that stage Girl Head high Clear eyes Their tired feet Became your wings to fly This is survival But you were always the why
Tags
Moody indie-soul ballad with male vocals, sparse piano and soft pads in the intro that slowly bloom into warm bass and organic drums. Verses stay intimate and low, close-mic vocal, brushed snares, and subtle guitar swells. Chorus opens up with wider harmonies, heavier kick, and rising strings for emotional lift. Final repeat drops to near a cappella then swells back with full band for a cathartic, cinematic outro., slow, soft
3:32
No
1/30/2026