I used to stand on the corner when I was a child
And I would play my guitar and sing as the people went by
The sidewalks were crowded, but I'd just sing louder 'cause I didn't mind
Spending my time, spending my rhymes, and singing for nickels and dimes
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
I'd brighten their day as they'd go on their way and they'd brighten mine
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
I knew that someday, in my own special way, I'd repay all their nickels and dimes
I recall the sidewalks each night as I stand on the stage
As I play my guitar and sing for the people who pay
'Cause finally, I made it to what they all call the Big Time
But I still remember I still owe some nickels and dimes
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
So, if you remember a child on the corner of time,
You'll know that I wrote this to repay your nickels and dimes
(repeat and fade out)