[Verse 1] You got the front-row seat I got the back of the line Your name on the trophy case Mine on the locker inside I said, “Good game, babe” Like it didn’t cut clean Smiled with my teeth on show Swallowed what I mean [Pre-Chorus] And I keep hearing that crowd When they call your name I clap too hard So it don’t look the same I wear it small But it still hits me That almost win Keeps sitting with me [Chorus] Feels like second place Second place I keep my head up But it stings my face Feels like second place Second place You get the gold And I get the wait (I get the wait) [Verse 2] I know you didn’t cheat I know you didn’t plan Still I’m counting the spots In the palm of my hand There’s a ribbon in the drawer From the run I lost by one I should throw it away But I can’t let it go undone [Pre-Chorus] And I keep hearing that crowd When they call your name I smile too fast Then I look away I say “I’m fine” Like a practiced prayer But my heart keeps score Even when you’re not there [Chorus] Feels like second place Second place I keep my head up But it stings my face Feels like second place Second place You get the gold And I get the wait (I get the wait) [Bridge] Maybe I’m not made For the first-place shine Maybe I’m the one Who learns to lose with style But I want more Than “you almost made it” I want my name When they finally say it [Final Chorus] Feels like second place Second place I keep my head up But it stings my face Feels like second place Second place If I don’t win now I’ll still take my place (take my place) Feels like second place Second place But I’m not done No, I’m not erased
