[Verse 1]
I used to stand on the corner when I was a child
And I'd play my guitar and sing as the people went by
The sidewalks were crowded
But I'd just sing louder because I didn't mind
Spending my time, spinning my rhymes
And singing for nickels and dimes

[Chorus]
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
I'd brighten their day as they go on their way
And they'd brighten mine
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
I knew that someday in my own special way
I'd repay all their nickels and dimes

[Verse 2]
I recall the sidewalk each night as I stand on the stage
As I play my guitar and sing for the people who paid
Because I finally made it to what they all call "the big time"
But I still remember I still owe some nickels and dimes

[Chorus]
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
So if you remember a child on the corner of time
You'll know that I wrote this to repay your nickels and dimes
[Chorus]
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
So if you remember a child on the corner of time
You'll know that I wrote this to repay your nickels and dimes

[Chorus]
Nickels and dimes, a song at a time for nickels and dimes
A sidewalk rehearsal for dreams that I held in my mind
So if you remember a child on the corner of time
You'll know that I wrote this to repay your nickels and dimes