[Verse 1]
Two sets of hands in the backyard dirt
Mom says "You're gonna have to move some earth
If you want tomatoes by the time the seasons turn
You gotta put in the groundwork"

[Verse 2]
My grandpa built it back in '76
Laid out the frame, went brick by brick
He said, "Young man, what you put in is what it's worth
You gotta put in the groundwork"

[Chorus]
You can try to get it fast
But it's one thing that I had to learn
If you want something that'll last
Well that's something that you have to earn
You gotta put the right things first
And put in the groundwork

[Verse 3]
Went and told my daddy that I found the girl
Yeah, I think she's gonna be my whole damn world
Said, "Slow down, son, if you really think it's her
You better put in the groundwork"
[Chorus]
You can try to get it fast
But it's one thing that I had to learn
If you want something that'll last
Well that's something that you have to earn
You gotta put the right things first
And put in the groundwork

[Outro]
Kids in the garden and the front porch view
My girl in white saying, "Yes I do"
If you want it all, for better or for worse
You gotta put in the groundwork
You gotta put in the groundwork