They put lights on me before I had a say Taught me how to smile, taught me how to stay Still in costumes, barely two Applause before I knew what it meant to be “you” Stages raised me, curtains closed Hands applaudin’, eyes like ghosts They said “shine,” they said “you’re blessed” But my body whispered “no” in my chest They said this is destiny, this is your role Tall and pretty, sell the soul They said that’s all there is for you Be admired, be consumed I didn’t wanna be a star Didn’t wanna burn that way Didn’t wanna live as art For strangers every day I didn’t wanna be a star Didn’t wanna learn that lie I wanted quiet, wanted real Wanted somewhere safe to hide They called it talent, called it fate Called it doors I couldn’t close But I saw monsters in the shine And danger in the perfect glow Every time I flinched or asked Why I felt afraid backstage They said “don’t ruin what you have” Then taught me shame instead of space Locked the questions, dressed the fear Punished truth for being clear I learned early how to freeze How to disappear in plain view I didn’t wanna be a star Didn’t wanna be adored Didn’t wanna trade my heart For a spotlight or an award I didn’t wanna be a star Didn’t wanna be displayed I wanted roots, not borrowed crowns I wanted love that didn’t fade Some kids dreamed of fame and lights I dreamed of peace and solid ground They chased the stage, I chased the exit Every time the crowd got loud They said “you’ll thank us someday” But I thank myself instead For surviving what looked golden While I carried all the dread Now I choose where my voice goes Choose when I am seen I sing because I want to Not because I’m made to be I’m not a product, not a role Not a dream they get to own I was never meant for worship I was meant to be my own I don’t wanna be a star I just wanna be alive I don’t need their perfect shine I make my own damn light [whisper and fade...] I don’t wanna be a star I just wanna be alive I don’t need their perfect shine I make my own damn light
