[Intro, Smooth electric piano, soft drums] [Verse 1] They sold me a dream with a diamond chain Wrapped my name in gold, but it feels the same Every smile’s rehearsed, every word’s a game I’m dancing for ghosts, in the hall of fame [Instrumental Break] [Verse 2] Every handshake’s just another deal They call it love, but it’s how they steal Trading truth for the way it feels Now I’m breaking out, I need something real [Pre-Chorus, Backing vocals hum] They say, “Boy, you’re shining, don’t you change that face” But the light I need ain’t from this place [Chorus, Stronger groove] I don’t want your golden cage Don’t need the price for the masquerade Take back your crown, your stage, your praise I just want to live, not fade away [Verse 3] They sold me a dream with a diamond chain Wrapped my name in gold, but it feels the same Every smile’s rehearsed, every word’s a game I’m dancing for ghosts, in the hall of fame [Pre-Chorus, Backing vocals hum] They say, “Boy, you’re shining, don’t you change that face” But the light I need ain’t from this place [Chorus, Stronger groove] I don’t want your golden cage Don’t need the price for the masquerade Take back your crown, your stage, your praise I just want to live, not fade away [Break, Saxophone solo] [Bridge, Key change lift, gospel choir enters] Strip it down, let the soul come through No lies left, just me and the truth You can keep your glitter view I’ll find my light in something new [Final Chorus, Full band] I don’t want your golden cage Don’t need the price for the masquerade Take back your crown, your stage, your praise I just want to live, not fade away [Final Chorus, Full band] I don’t want your golden cage Don’t need the price for the masquerade Take back your crown, your stage, your praise I just want to live, not fade away [Outro, Slow fade, piano and choir] I just want to live... not fade away Oh, I just want to live... today
