Playing the Game
Track 11 of Cut Throat
[ Lyrics ]
I play soft, but I play smart. Cold-emailed with a subject line: *Dear Future, I’m Ready.* Attached the EP, the visuals, the numbers — all steady. No begging in the body, no ‘please just see me,’ Just ‘here’s my work,’ and a P.S.: *I lead teams.* He said, ‘Come in Monday,’ like he was doing me the favor, I showed in a beige blazer — no blush, no flavor. Sat with my hands folded, my voice warm but low, Asked who *they* were protecting, and who had to go. He smiled like a handshake, eyes scanning my face, I let him think he’s reading me — I set the pace. No demo drops, no favors, no signing at dawn — I don’t need a door. I’m building the lawn. I play soft, but I play smart, built a boardroom in my heart. Silent steps, but I claim my part — don’t need luck when I’ve done the math. I play soft, but I play smart, no more pieces, I’m making the art. He slid me a contract, said, ‘It’s just for the vibe,’ I read all six pages while he took a wide stride. Twelve-month exclusivity, 15 percent share, joked, ‘We love your sound — just lose that air.’ I laughed like a chime, closed the folder with care, said, ‘Thanks for your time — but I’m good on the air.’ Took my coffee cold, walked past the front desk, my heels didn’t click — I left no text. Used to pray for a seat at the table, now I sketch the frame, buy the wood, nail the legs, light a name. No more crumbs from their plate — I’m baking the cake, even if they don’t call, I’m wide awake. I play soft, but I play smart, built a boardroom in my heart. Silent steps, but I claim my part — don’t need luck when I’ve done the math. I play soft, but I play smart, no more pieces, I’m making the art. I used to twist my ring when I was nervous, now I twist the deal ‘til it’s deserved. I used to cry in the Uber on the way home, now I’m drafting the terms in my phone. I play soft, but I play smart, steel in the silk, fire in the dark. Silent steps, but I claim my part — don’t need love when I’ve got the charts. I play soft, but I play smart, my peace is a weapon, my calm is a spark. And I laugh… I used to beg for a seat. Now I build my own table.