I've been down and out, I often feel left out,
My luck never seems to last.
I often lose what I've got, which never seems to be a lot
I can't find a reason to get out of bed...

My luck runs out real fast, the good times never seem to last
I rule the thrown of the broken-hearted fools.
I've been kicked when I'm down,
I've fallen down the hill and I've broken my crown
But Jill never comes tumbling down after me.

[Chorus:]
Lady Luck caught the last train out,
Banned from heaven, hells kicking me out
My only friend is a bottle of old Tennessee.
Some say "what's the point in trying?"
Get busy living or get busy dying
I'm still thankful for these friends I do receive.

Are you lost if nuthins gained
Pick up your head and stop your cryin'
Get busy living or get busy dying

My luck runs out real fast, the good times never seem to last
I rule the thrown of the broken-hearted fools.
I've been kicked when I'm down,
I've fallen down the hill and I've broken my crown
But Jill never comes tumbling down after me.

[Chorus]

Are you lost if nuthins gained
Playing someone else's game?
Pick up your head and stop your cryin'
Get busy living or get busy dying

[Chorus]

Are you lost if nuthins gained
Playing someone else's game?
Pick up your head and stop your cryin'
Get busy living or get busy dying

I've been down and out I often feel left out
My luck never seems to last