Broke but true

I was seventeen with dust on my boots
A small town dream and a worn out truth
Everybody said just play along
Smile real wide and keep it calm

But I never fit in that painted frame
Could not trade my heart for fame
Mama said son just stay who you are
Even if it does not get you far

I got a long road in my veins
More than money more than chains
If I lose the crowd tonight
At least I keep my soul alight

I would rather be broke but true
Than rich in a lie I never knew
Got my windows down let the wind decide
I got nothing to hide inside
If the world wants something new
It will have to take me as I am too
I am not perfect but I am real
And that is a deal I will never seal

City lights and neon lies
Everybody wears disguise
But I drive slow past the noise
Holding on to my only voice

I got scars that shine like gold
Every story that I told
May not make the headlines bright
But I sleep just fine at night

I would rather be broke but true
Than rich in a lie I never knew
Got my windows down let the wind decide
I got nothing to hide inside
If the world wants something new
It will have to take me as I am too
I am not perfect but I am real
And that is a deal I will never seal

If I fall I fall my way
If I win I still will stay
Same old heart same old name
Not a shadow in the flame

I would rather be broke but true
Than rich in a lie I never knew
Every mile I ride it through
Is proof that I stayed brand new
If they ask me what is real
I will show them how it feels
I am not perfect but I am real
And that is a deal I will never seal