Well, I make people happy
but I don't make men rich
so I'm stranded on rocks
between ocean and beach
and the tide it is rising'
and the clouds they are gathering'
Will you tell me again why you want me to smile?

You got the power
and you got the privilege
You name the countries
'cause you won the war
So why do you need the slave to look happy?
And why do want the whore to like it?
And why do you need the children to love you?
Will you tell me again why you want me to smile?

I've sung and I've danced
since I was a boy
To share with my fellows
my sorrow and joy
just to find it worth less
than the least of your property
Will you tell me again why you want me to smile?

Well, you spend untold millions
to make sure we know
You've won every battle
you've slain every foe
but you forgot to kill me
and I ain't the only one
Will you tell me again why you want me to smile?