Put a Level on the Table

[Intro: odd-meter bass, staccato guitar]

[Verse 1: rhythmic baritone]
I watched the room stand taller
When the boss came walking in
Then shrink around the cleaner
Like they couldn't see his skin
I saw the way our voices changed
Depending who could help us win

[Pre-Chorus: layered ascending thirds]
I don't want my courtesy
To bend toward authority

[Chorus: explosive major-key harmonies]
Put a level on the table
Let the bubble settle true
I won't measure someone's value
By the things they do for you
Every title, every station
Every unfamiliar face
Deserves the same consideration
The same respect, the same grace

[Break: slap bass, counterpoint guitars]

[Verse 2: warm melodic delivery]
I learned the cleaner's name
And asked him how his evening went
Gave the intern time to finish
Every thought she tried to vent

[Bridge: half-time, intimate]
It's easy being gracious
When there's something you might gain
The measure of your kindness
Is how you treat the ones who can't

[Final Chorus: soaring octave harmonies]
Put a level on the table
Let our dignity run straight
Every person is a person
Long before they earn a name

[Outro: bright guitar resolution]