I'd like to build the world a home
And furnish it with love
Grow apple trees and honey bees
And snow-white turtle doves

I'd like to teach the world to sing
In perfect harmony
I'd like to hold it in my arms
And keep it company

It's the real thing
What the world wants today
That's the way it will stay
With the real thing

It's the real thing
Won't you hear what I say?
What the world needs today
Is the real thing
I'd like to see the world for once
All standing hand in hand
And hear them echo through the hills
For peace throughout the land

It's the real thing

I'd like to teach the world to sing
In perfect harmony
A song of peace that echoes on
And never goes away

It's the real thing

I'd like to teach the world to sing
In perfect harmony
I like to hold it in my arm
And keep it company

It's the real thing