“Homecoming King” is the fifth track from Guster’s fourth album Keep It Together. It was first performed – with slightly different and extended lyrics – in April 2002, and went through a few phases before it was recorded for the album.
[Verse 1: Ryan Miller]
On your way to the best years of your life
Everyone's banging on their gongs
The sooner you leave, the sooner you're home
[Pre-Chorus: Ryan Miller]
Back in Massachusetts
To your golden age
Where they tuck you in at night
[Chorus: Ryan Miller & Adam Gardner]
You didn't see it coming
Now who you gonna wave to?
'Cause this time you're not homecoming king
[Verse 2: Ryan Miller]
Did you hear that?
Have you heard that sound before?
Do you even know where it is coming from?
It's getting too loud
It keeps on pushing you out
Into the arms of 1994
[Chorus: Ryan Miller & Adam Gardner]
You didn't see it coming
Now who you gonna wave to?
'Cause this time you're not homecoming king
You're not homecoming king
[Bridge: Ryan Miller/Miller & Adam Gardner]
You stand on your own
Wasn't what you hoped at all
Do you still recall it
You're giving dead-arms in the hall
Stay right where you are
You'll be half of who you were
When you always would win
So count the days 'til you give in
[Pre-Chorus: Ryan Miller]
Back to Massachusetts
To your golden age
Where your crown is shining bright
[Chorus: Ryan Miller & Adam Gardner]
You didn't see it coming
Now who you gonna wave to?
'Cause this time you're not homecoming king
[Chorus: Ryan Miller & Adam Gardner]
You didn't see it coming
Now who you gonna wave to?
'Cause this time you're not homecoming king
You're not homecoming king
Homecoming King was written by Brian Rosenworcel.
Homecoming King was produced by Ron Aniello.