David has a bachelor’s and master's degree
David’s married, soon to have a family of three
David makes six figures, and what about me?
Yeah, call me a wannabe

Mom says, “Ditch the hobbies, find a job to pursue”
Dad says, “Don’t go chasing dreams if you can’t go through”
“David couldn’t do it, so neither could you”
Now I’ve got something to prove

‘Cause I’m so sick of “second best”
I’m so sick of “not impressed”
This family’s obsessed
With validation
And reputation

American dream
Tell me, what’s the price of perfection?
Tell me why I crave your affection
When excellence is expected
Praise is a luxury

American dream
Why do my achievements define me?
Why does life feel so damn confining?
When success is respected
There’s no room for mediocrity
I overcompensate in everything that I do
I bring home all the trophies that I won just for you
You see a starving musician in debt from tuition
I’m never enough for you

‘Cause I’m so sick of being stressed
Working hard at your request
This family’s obsessed
With validation
And reputation

American dream
Tell me, what’s the price of perfection?
Tell me why I crave your affection
When excellence is expected
Praise is a luxury

American dream
Why do my achievements define me?
Why does life feel so damn confining?
When success is respected
There’s no room for mediocrity

You’ve lived a life of sacrifice
Nothing I do could dare suffice
I’ll never stop trying and trying to be enough
Enough for you
American dream
Tell me, what’s the price of perfection?
Tell me why I crave your affection
When excellence is expected
Praise is a luxury

American dream
Why do my achievements define me?
Why does life feel so damn confining?
When success is respected
There’s no room for mediocrity