“Subcity” is a song by American singer songwriter Tracy Chapman from her 1989 album, Crossroads. It was released in 1990 as the third and final single from her album by Elektra Records. The song did not chart as well in 1990.
People say it doesn't exist
Cause no one would like to admit
That there is a city underground
Where people live everyday
Off the waste and decay
Off the discards of their fellow man
Here in subcity life is hard
We can't receive any government relief
Won't you please, please give the President my honest regards
For disregarding me
They say there's too much crime in these city streets
My sentiments exactly
Government and big business hold the purse strings
When I worked I worked in the factories
I'm at the mercy of the world
I guess I'm lucky to be alive
Here in subcity life is hard
We can't receive any government relief
Won't you please, please give the President my honest regards
For disregarding me
They say we've fallen through the cracks
They say the system works
But we won't let it
Help
I guess they never stop to think
We might not just want handouts
But a way to make an honest living
Living this ain't living
Here in subcity life is hard
We can't receive any government relief
Won't you please, please give the President my honest regards
For disregarding me
What did I do deserve this
Had my trust in god
Worked everyday of my life
Thought I had some guarantees
That's what I thought
At least that's what I thought
Here in subcity life is hard
We can't receive any government relief
Won't you please, please give the President my honest regards
For disregarding me
Last night I had another restless sleep
Wondering what tomorrow might bring
Last night I dreamed
A cold blue light was shining down on me
I screamed myself awake
Thought I must be dying
Thought I must be dying
Here in subcity life is hard
We can't receive any government relief
I'd like to give Mr. President my honest regards
For disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Disregarding me
Subcity was written by Tracy Chapman.
Subcity was produced by David Kershenbaum & Tracy Chapman.