Thanks Daddy

[Chorus]

Thanks Daddy, Thanks Daddy
Thanks Daddy, Thanks Daddy

[Verse 1]

When I first heard this beat, it brought tears to my eyes
I knew finally had the chance to let out what’s been inside
The entire reason I started, putting words on to wax
I knew the power we had, I knew our story’s impact
From both ends of the spectrum, I knew that all could relate
This all happened for a reason, God don’t make no mistakes
To the man that I owe, every single thing in my life
The only way I can pay you back is if my words they hit you right
They say we talk just alike, they say we walk just the same
My claim to fame is that one day the whole world gon’ know our name
Alton Clark, first and last
Kevin and Dorian, middle different
Just enough to separate but let em know that I’m one of your children
You done put in your work, you empowered me from my birth
Having a son that writes rhymes, another one of the perks
On the surface they see, a very good and happy ending
They don’t know your struggle, so let me start from the beginning

[Chorus]

[Verse 2]

Born in Dayton, Ohio, to a single mother dirt poor
She already had 2 kids and after you she had one more
Everybody was a different shade, 3 with different last names
It ain’t take long to figure out, that your Dad wasn’t tryin’ to claim
You would wonder where he was, when you was walking home in the rain
Why you can’t get no new shoes, why your drum bag at the same
You made a vow to yourself, to never be like him
Your kids ain’t gon feel like how you felt cause you gon’ to be there for them
17 years old, you was about to leave for basic
Then you got news from your girl, that she was 6 weeks pregnant
You shedded some tears, but you ain’t run from your fears
And when you saw Tamika’s face, you smiled from ear-to-ear
You and her mom ain’t work out, but that ain’t stop you from loving
3 years later, just 21, my Mom was calling you husband
When I was born you said to her, this is my pride and glory
And I swear on my life he ain’t never gon’ have to worry

[Verse 3]

You said I’d never have to worry and your words they held true
You’ve been my rock, you’ve been my guide
When I needed advice you always knew
Even when it seemed like I was lost, I was always found
My amazing saving grace was always having you around
We be playing Nintendo, you was cussin Mario out
You built me a court to hoop on, by taking equity out cho house
Those everyday sacrifices of which you never kept track
Just wanted me to have what you ain’t have
A Dad who always had your back
Stay away from dope
Temper on the liquor
Don’t leave the one you with cause another butts bigger
Firm Handshake, look every man in his eyes
Brown belt, Brown shoes
Here’s how you tie a tie
They was studying the words of Nas, Biggie and Hov
All my friends was raised by rap, I had my Daddy at home
Yo pops was never around so I know you’ll never understand
There’s no better feeling than being born to your best friend

[Outro]

If you had good Dad, put your hands like this
If you got a good Dad, put your hands like this
If you know a good Dad, put your hands like this
If you gon' be a good Dad, put your hands like this

(Repeat)