Rehab album cover

Lecrae – Background Lyrics

Hip Hop/Rap

I could play the background
I could play the background
'Cause I know sometimes I get in the way
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
And I could play the background, background
And you could take the lead
It's evident you run the show, so let me back down

You take the leading role, and I'll play the background
I know I miss my cues, know I forget my lines
I'm sticking to your script, and I'm reading all your signs (Aye)
I don't need my name in lights, (Aye) I don't need a starring role
Why gain the whole wide world, If I'm just gonna lose my soul?
And my ways ain't purified, don't live according to Your Word
I can't endure this life without Your wisdom being heard
So word to every dancer for a pop star
'Cause we all play the background, but mine's a rockstar
Yeah, so if you need me I'll be stage right
Praying the whole world would start embracing stage fright
So let me fall back, stop giving my suggestions
'Cause when I follow my obsessions, I end up confessin'
That I'm not that impressive, matter of fact
I'm who I are, a trail of stardust leading to the superstar
I could play the background

I could play the background

'Cause I know sometimes I get in the way
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
And I could play the background, background
And you could take the lead
Yo, I had a dream that I was captain of my soul

I was master of my fate, lost control, and then I sank
So I don't want to take the lead, 'cause I'm prone to make mistakes

All these folks who follow me, goin' end up in the wrong place
So just let me shadow you, just let me trace your lines
Matter of fact, just take my pen, here, you create my rhymes
'Cause if I do this by myself, I'm scared that I'll succeed
And no longer trust in You, 'cause I only trust in me
And see, that's how you end up headed to destruction
Paving a road to nowhere, pour your life out for nothin'
You pulled my card, I'm bluffin', You know what's in my hand
Me, I just roll and trust you, You cause the dice to land
I'm in control of nothing, follow You at any cost
Some call it sovereign will, all I know is you the boss
And man, I'm so at ease, I'm so content
I'll play the background, like it's an instrument
I could play the background

I could play the background
'Cause I know sometimes I get in the way
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?

So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
And I could play the background, background
And you could take the lead
I know I'm safest when I'm in Your will, and trust Your Word

I know I'm dangerous when I trust myself, my vision blurred
And I ain't got no time to play life's foolish games
Got plenty aims, but do they really Glorify Your name?
And it's a shame, the way I want to do these things for You, yet

Don't even cling to you, take time to sit and glean from You
It seems like You were patient in my ignorance
If ignorance is bliss, it's 'cause she never heard of this
I could play the background

I could play the background
'Cause I know sometimes I get in the way
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
And I could play the background, background

And you could take the lead
I could play the background
I could play the background
'Cause I know sometimes I get in the way
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
So won't You take the lead, lead, lead?
And I could play the background, background
And you could take the lead

About This Song

"Background" is a deeply introspective hip-hop track that explores themes of humility, surrender, and spiritual submission through the metaphor of stepping back from center stage. Lecrae uses theatrical imagery-missing cues, forgetting lines, following a script-to express his desire to let God take the leading role in his life while he willingly plays a supporting part. The song's mellow, contemplative beat complements its vulnerable lyrics, creating space for reflection rather than demanding attention through aggressive production. This represents a powerful counter-narrative to hip-hop's typical emphasis on self-promotion and ego, instead celebrating the strength found in yielding control. The track stands out as a mature meditation on faith and personal growth, showcasing Lecrae's ability to blend spiritual themes with authentic hip-hop artistry.

Comments (8)

  • Anonymous
    Best song ever!!! Rehab...so much trth in it!!! Good job Lecrae. Thanck you 4 beeing such a good example 4 my generation! God bless you man!
  • Anonymous
    Wow! Finally some lyrics that I feel like every word is accurate! All the stuff I can't figure out is in here solidly without me having to guess if its right or not.
  • Toyambi Lopez Baelo
    this lyrics r deep!
  • Kasozi Moses
    this wat we call good music, big up LECRAE.
  • Bright Amoo
    this is really touching.
  • Rose Obilor
    I'm so in luv wt ds song. God!
  • MelatMesfin Haile
    love this song, shows real feeling..:)
  • Sabrina Solomon
    Lord Jesus take lead of my life.