Story Behind The Song

Living in New York City and witnessing the events written in the lyrics were the inspiration for this song about the differences between rich privileged people and poor and homeless people. Also, getting a perspective on what real problems are, not just silly frivolous problems that aren't really problems at all. In this case, also getting a perspective on my petty problems and realizing that they are petty problems compared to what I've seen on the streets of New York City.

Song Description

Angry and sarcastic song about the differences between rich and poor people -- frivolous things and basic needs.

Lyrics

Thirty Dollars an Ounce (Such a Rough Life) ©Thea Kearney

I saw a man eating his dinner from a garbage can
But the cocoa on your decaf latte was stale
I saw a man with a bloated leg twenty inches wide.
But the shoes you wanted, they didn't have in your size

Such a rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
Rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
At thirty dollars an ounce
At thirty dollars an ounce

She bought a fifteen dollar black mascara
While a ten year old boy was being shot on the corner
But what would she do without her special hydrating
eye make-up remover at
thirty dollars an ounce

I Saw a woman couldn't have been more than three feet tall
But they were out of your gourmet brand at the mall
I saw a man with metal claws for hands and a fire scarred face
But your stomach ached from your fourth frozen margarita

Such a rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
Rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
At thirty dollars an ounce
At thirty dollars an ounce

Such a rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
Rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
Such a rough life, rough life, How I feel for you
Rough life, rough life, How I feel for you