Before I retired

Verse 1

I been quiet, keepin’ peace like it’s gold in my hands,

Tryna walk the straight line, be a better kind of man.

But folks love pushin’ limits they don’t understand—

They don’t know the fire buried deep in this land.

Pre-Chorus

I ain’t the type to brag on who I used to be,

But don’t go diggin’ up graves that should stay underneath.

Chorus

Don’t put me in a situation where I gotta step outta character…

‘Cause I’ll show you what it looked like

Before I retired the version that carried hurt.

I laid that old life down

So I don’t burn the whole world down.

So don’t test that fire—

You don’t wanna meet the man I was before I retired.

Verse 2

I’ve seen nights turn bloody red off pride and fear,

Done my share of damage just to make folks disappear.

Now I’m tryna build somethin’, keep my circle clear—

But some people love pokin’ at a volunteer.

Pre-Chorus

I ain’t perfect, but I’ve worked to change my name,

Don’t drag me back into storms just to watch it rain.

Chorus

Don’t put me in a situation where I gotta step outta character…

‘Cause I’ll show you what it looked like

Before I retired the version that carried hurt.

I laid that old life down

So I don’t burn the whole world down.

So don’t test that fire—

You don’t wanna meet the man I was before I retired.

Bridge

I ain’t threatenin’—just tellin’ you the simple truth:

You push a man too far, he’ll show you sides he outgrew.

I ain’t goin’ back, but if you force that door,

Don’t cry when you’re facin’ what I was before.

Final Chorus (Bigger)

Don’t put me in a situation where I gotta step outta character…

‘Cause I’ll show you what it looked like

Before I retired the version built to hurt.

I laid that darkness down,

Tryna keep my boots on solid ground.

You think I’m quiet now?

Just pray you never meet the man I was before I retired.