I caught the 4:00 AM bus, back to the block where

I caught the 4:00 AM bus, back to the block where I started Before the labels, before the fans, before the departed Saw Mrs. Higgins on the porch, same sweater, same stare She didn't see the "platinum artist," she just saw the kid the dream She asked me, "Son, I heard your voice on the radio today," I just nodded, "Yeah, I’m blessed," then I looked the other way 'Cause how do I tell her I got millions in the bank account When she’s still counting pennies for the light bill's total amount? I felt the ego start to swell, a little itch inside my chest Wanting to tell her 'bout the Grammys and how I’m better than the rest But I caught my reflection in a puddle on the street Just a shadow in some beat-up J’s, tryna keep his balance sweet. (Chorus) So I’m blowing smoke, watching how the clouds drift Life’s a heavy lift, gotta keep the soul shifted Stay humble in the jungle, never let 'em see you fold Keep your heart pure gold, while the world is turning cold. (Verse 2) Ended up at the court, where the hoop is missing the net Saw a kid about fourteen, face dripping with sweat He was rocking my jersey—well, the knock-off from the store Told me he’s the next me, then he proceeded to score He asked for a picture, asked for a tip on how to blow I took a hit of the leaf, exhaled it nice and slow I said, "The secret ain't the jewelry or the way the chorus hits, It’s knowing who you are when the whole world calls it quits. I seen 'em lose their minds chasing ghosts in a ghost town, Building towers made of glass just to watch 'em crumble down." He looked at me confused, like he wanted talk of cars and fame I just patted his shoulder, "Don't let 'em own your name." (Verse 3) Walked back to the rental, felt the weight start to lift Recognizing that the talent? That’s a loan, not a gift A guy at the light recognized me, started screaming out the window I just gave a peace sign, kept my head tucked in the shadow The smoke in the cabin started curling 'round the mirror In the haze of the high, things started looking a lot clearer I’m just a vessel for the words, a witness to the climb I’m a tenant in this body, just borrowed for a time Pulled up to the crib, didn't even turn on the lights Just sat there in the silence of these cold Carolina nights Humility ain't thinking less of who you are, it’s true It’s just thinking of yourself a little less in all you do. (Outro) (Deep exhale, the sound of the smoke fading) Yeah. Back to basics. The higher the branches go, the deeper the roots gotta dig. If you don't stay grounded, the wind'll take you. Keep it real.