“Cost of Living” — Lyrics of Will T. Massey

Another in a series of posts featuring the music and lyrics of Will T. Massey

Songwriters talk about writing a “rent-payer” when they pen a song popular enough to earn them royalties for years to come. This early song of Will’s impressed one listener of means to become a modern-day patron, supporting Will through all of his efforts and struggles — like in the song.

My papa slipped a twenty into my hand,
He told me, “There’s one thing ya gotta understand:
You live by the rules, you’ll find help at home —
You act like a fool, boy, you’re on your own.”
It’s a high price I pay,
The cost of living my own way.

Well, I’m a guitar picker and it’s hard to tell
If I’m bound for Heaven or I’m headed for Hell.
Believing in luck and dedication,
I gave up a college education.
It’s a high price I pay,
The cost of living my own way.

Now, I play the clubs from town to town,
I just make enough to get me around.
I’m living the life that I choose,
But I’m going broke paying my dues.

Well, the Devil came knocking, his intent
Was to trade my soul for last month’s rent
‘Cuz he knew I had nothing left to pawn.
I said, “Throw in dinner and buddy, you’re on.”
It’s a high price I pay,
The cost of living my own way.

Yeah, it’s a high price I pay,
The cost of living my own way.

Young Will T. Massey in a live performance at the ACTV studio, 1989
Directed by Sue Sende Cole, produced by David Cole