I used to stand on the corner when I was a child
And I would play my guitar and sing as the people went by
The sidewalks were crowded, but I'd just sing louder, 'cause I didn't mind
Spending my time spending my rhymes And singing for nickels and dimes

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

I recall the sidewalks each night as I stand on the stage
As I play my guitar and sing for the people who pay
'Cause finally I made it to what they all call the big time
But I still remember I still owe some nickels and dimes

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

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 promised to repay your nickels and dimes

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