I was born a poor, poor man
And all of my life I've had hard working hands
But I sang my song as I carried my load
'Cause I had a dream about Rainbow, Rainbow road

Then one day my chance came along
A man heard me singing and playing these old songs
He bought me fine clothes
And paid the money I owed
Sent me on my way down Rainbow, Rainbow road

And then one night, a man with a knife
Pushed me 'til I had to take his life
Fast as falling all my friends were gone
That old judge traded me a sentence for a song

Just living with this ball and chain
I had to wear a number 'fore they ever heard my name
Like the dream I'm growing old
But we still sing about Rainbow, Rainbow road

Rainbow Road, Rainbow Road, Rainbow Road