When you reach number ten And think the struggle ends But it ain't the end It's only a trend You have to unbend 'Cause it's only a trend Don't lose all your friends Don't make heroes end When you reach number eight it ain't no pearly gate 'Cause it won't satiate your growing appetite You can ply your trade and push your crusade Emancipate or indoctrinate, but the Traps are all laid for and honest crusade Your old values will fade as you struggle to make the grade As you struggle to make the grade (As you struggle to make the grade) (You neededn't bother) When you hit number four you're almost through the door But there's a whole lot more you just can't ignore The telephone's sure, you know the score But don't let this uproar dissipate your encore It's written in the news how you paid your dues But you've no excuse for the people you abuse When you reach number one you can beat your drum You can sack your roadies in Birmingham When your record is platinum, you can stick it to the bath, To the wall like you've always planned It's written in the news how you paid your dues But you've no excuse for the people you abuse (ad lib to fade)