About the song
Background
- Released in 1971 as the title track from Pride’s twelfth studio album.
- Written by Glenn Martin.
- Became Pride’s seventh number one hit on the U.S. country singles chart.
- The song appeared on the album I’m Just Me, which itself reached number one on the Billboard country albums chart.
Lyrics
The song is a celebration of individuality and self-acceptance. The narrator sings about being comfortable in his own skin, despite what others might think.
Here’s an excerpt:
I don’t worry ’bout the fads or the fashions I don’t try to be somethin’ I’m not I just wear a smile and sing my own songs And that’s all I ever have thought
Themes
- Self-acceptance: The core message is about being happy with who you are, regardless of external pressures.
- Staying true to oneself: The lyrics emphasize the importance of authenticity and not conforming to expectations.
- Confidence: The song conveys a sense of self-assuredness and comfort in one’s identity.
Video
Lyrics
Down at the railroad station there’s people gettin’ on
Some are a goin’ north some are a goin’ south I’m just goin’ to be gone
Some people are born to be takers others just wanna give
Some people live just to love but I just love to live.
For I was just born to be exactly what you see
Nothing more or less I’m not the worst or the best
I just try to be exactly what you see
Today and every day I’m just me.
When people say their life is rough I wonder compared to what
Some are wantin’ more and more’s gettin’ less I just want what I’ve got
Some wanna live on a hill others down by the sea
Some wanna live inside high walls I just wanna live free.
For I was just born to be exactly what you see
Nothing more or less I’m not the worst or the best
I just try to be exactly what you see
Today and every day I’m just me.
Oh, I was just born to be exactly what you see
Today and every day I’m just me…