Dropped on this planet without our consent
We've been charged to perform at our best
But as I look around us, I'm inclined to resent
That the folks who ain't trying seem blessed

It ain't fair, it's not right that cheaters succeed
While we work hard for all that we're worth
Giving more than we take as we cry and we bleed
And imposters inherit the Earth

The emptiest barrel makes the most noise 
The hollowest head sounds the loudest
The boisterous baby takes home the most toys
And the purplest peacock seems proudest

But we must keep our heads as the rest our kind
Lose their minds and blame me and you
Gotta trust in their value and not leave them behind
When that's just what we wish we could do

We must field all their lies and not fall back on lies 
Let them hate us without giving back hate
Share what wisdom we glean without acting too wise
Do what's right without thinking we're great

The emptiest barrel makes the most noise 
The hollowest head sounds the loudest
The boisterous baby takes home the most toys
And the purplest peacock seems proudest

So let's dream without letting our dreams take control
Bend our rules without letting them break
Turn to reason and right without losing our soul
And do good for goodness sake

Let's be good for goodness sake

© Copyright 2025 Peter Lloyd
Music by suno.com AI

The Emptiest Barrel

Songwriter since 1966. Can't believe I still have to write protest songs. Prefer writing love songs and songs of praise for stand-up women and men, parodies, lyrical nonsense, blues and adaptations.