Story Behind The Song
The song is based on how we measure personal success when we look back at a man's life, and what is really important. The answer turns out to be how he's viewed by the loved ones he leaves behind.
Song Description
"The Measure Of A Man" is a mid-tempo Country Rock song about which things are important when we look back at a man's life and accomplishments. The track features some Classic Rock influences on acoustic and electric guitars, B3, and harmonies.
| Song Length |
3:34 |
Genre |
Country - Rock, Rock - Classic |
| Tempo |
Medium (111 - 130) |
Lead Vocal |
Male Vocal |
| Mood |
In High Spirits, Content |
Subject |
Judgement, Masculinity |
| Similar Artists |
Riley Green, Tom Petty |
Language |
English |
| Era |
2000 and later |
| |
Lyrics
THE MEASURE OF A MAN
Mark Patterson © 2025
He never wanted to be a celebrity
So when the Big Guy calls him away
There won't be enough glory in his life story
For the papers the following day
He paid his dues but it won't make the news
Though he makes the world a better place
He doesn't give a damn about what's in demand
Living life at his own pace
(Tell me) What's the real measure of a man
Is it what he's built with his own two hands
Or how much heartache he had to withstand
Or all the temptation that he outran
Well let me tell you what comes to mind
It's the love he's earned and will leave behind
And that legacy my friend is the finest kind
What's the real measure of a man
Is it what he's built with his own two hands
Or how much heartache he had to withstand
Or all the temptation that he outran
Well let me tell you what comes to mind
It's the love he's earned and will leave behind
And that legacy my friend is the finest kind
He never made many enemies
At least as far as I know
He'll leave no one behind with an axe to grind
He's made a lot more friends than foes
He's got nothing to fear and his conscience is clear
The man leaves nothing unsaid
And I hope that we can remember that he
Won't be gone but just gone ahead
What's the real measure of a man
Is it what he's built with his own two hands
Or how much heartache he had to withstand
Or all the temptation that he outran
I'll say it again what comes to mind
It's the love he's earned and will leave behind
And that legacy my friend is the finest kind
Yeah that legacy my friend is the finest kind