When I was in school
Obeyed the teacher's rules
Momma was always careful to dress me nice
They won't think twice, she said
And don't be stupid, fool
Walking down the street
I feel my pride
Then they see me coming
And take the other side
Give me something
Give me something to believe in
I gotta ask you
Will my life matter?
Or is it just a matter of time?
I stand six foot four
And served in the war
Don't want no trouble
I just want a chance
Not a second glance from you
You know, you've seen me before
We're not so different, you and me
I vowed to keep 'em safe
You're doing the same in a different game
C'mon, what will it be?
I gotta know now, will my life matter?
Or will you take me in my prime?
You gotta tell me, will my life matter?
Or is it just a matter of time?
Momma said, don't smoke it
That's how they get you, dear
A black man with a record?
That's one hill to climb
"Sorry not this time, son"
That's all you'll ever hear
I need to know, will my life matter?
Does the punishment fit the crime?
You gotta tell me, will my life matter?
Or will you take me in my prime?
Oh, I gotta know now
Will my life matter?
Or is it just a matter of time?