No Daddy
Teairra Marí Lyrics

I didn't have no daddy around when I was growing up (huh)
I grew up without a father, and that has had an impact on my behavior and attitude.

That's why I'm wild and I don't give a (huh)
My father's absence has made me rebellious and unapologetic.

Ya'll think 'cause these jeans fit, I would give it up
Just because I look good doesn't mean I'm going to sleep around.

Don't let my cute face fool ya
My appearance may be deceiving, but I won't let anyone take advantage of me.

Been through so much in my life
I have experienced a lot of hardship in my life.

Seen things in my life
I have witnessed things that nobody should have to see or go through.

That I never thought I'd make it through
I have faced challenges that I didn't think I could overcome, but I did.

Had a few close calls in my life
There have been times when I came very close to serious harm or death.

That could have ended my life
These experiences could have easily resulted in my death.

But I'm here looking at you
Despite everything I've been through, I'm still alive and standing.

Never thought that I'd be here
At times, I didn't think I would make it to where I am now.

I'm the type that don't give a damn about rules
I have a rebellious nature and don't like to follow strict guidelines.

I was forced to survive on the streets
I had to rely on myself to make it in a harsh urban environment.

Make my own way to eat
I had to find ways to provide for myself and put food on the table.

Gotta do what I gotta do (Best believe)
I had to take whatever opportunities came my way to survive.

No I don't strip in the club
I don't work in the adult entertainment industry.

Nor trick in the club
I don't engage in illegal activities or prostitution in nightclubs.

But I got friends that do
I have acquaintances who work in these fields to make a living and support themselves.

So my girls that's getting the dough
I support and respect my friends who work hard to earn money.

The best way they know
They are doing what they have to do to make ends meet and get by.

Don't hate girl I got you
I don't judge you for the work you do, and I am here to support you.

Even though it ain't me (I understand)
Although I don't do what my friends do, I empathize with their situation and understand why they do it.

That its real in these streets (I understand)
The world they work in is harsh, and they must do what they can to survive.

When it comes to that rent, that whip
When you need to pay your bills and maintain your lifestyle.

That check, ain't nobody gonna protect your neck like you
You are responsible for your own well-being and financial security.

All, all my girls from a broken home
I feel a sense of solidarity with women who, like me, grew up in families that faced challenges.

When you're feeling all alone
When you feel isolated and like nobody understands your struggles.

And you feel you can't go on (call me)
Reach out to me for support.

Next time that they try to treat ya
The next time someone tries to treat you poorly.

Like you a freak just so he can look good
Trying to make you feel bad to make themselves feel better.

Tell them
Don't let anyone treat you poorly, and stand up for yourself.