The Marble Staircase Lyrics

There once was man named James

Not a thing in his fridge, not a dollar to his name

Clothes beat up, fighting pain with drugs

And everyone around him is going through the same

He used to work the airport as a shoe shiner

Now he's bussing tables over at this new diner

Mopping, clocking out, leaving, locking up the door

Car's broke down so he's walking in the snow

James saw a light and he followed the sparkle

It led him to a staircase made out of marble

At the top it was a party, fancy clothes, food, and wine

At the bottom stood a guard it was the devil in disguise

He said you can join the party but it won't be free

James said I don't have a dollar for the fee

The devil said I got a deal I think you'll find fair

Let me have your ears, I'll give you a new pair

No more *POP POP* just hymns down below

He took a few steps then devil said so

If you wanna keep going I'mma need to take your eyes

But I can give you new ones that will look real nice

Almost to the party, and just beneath him

All the people reached for help although James couldn't see 'em

The devil said I have one last bargain

Let me replace your brain and heart and

I'll give you some new memories, your heart will tick better

This was the moment James' life changed forever

Sweater made of cashmere, gold up on his wrist

Feeling like the man here, bubbly in his fist

Never felt this way before, like problems don't exist

He made it to the top he got exactly what he wished

The devil made an offer that James couldn't decline

And now he has forgotten all the people left behind