[Verse 1]
Old folks say they ain't seen nothin' like it
Since the great depression back in '29
Men and women tryin' to scratch out a livin'
Standin' shoulder to shoulder in the welfare line

[Chorus]
Hard times ain't got no prejudice
It don't see black or white
Healthy and strong, willin' and able
We're just holdin' on in hard times

[Verse 2]
White-haired preacher standing' in the pulpit
Just a waivin' his bible preachin' end of days
Death and destruction ragin' across the planet
Better pray to your maker that your soul is saved

[Chorus]
Hard times ain't got no prejudice
It don't see black or white
Faith is strong, willin' and able
We're just holdin' on in hard times

[Verse 3]
New born baby clingin' to his mama
He came into this world just like you and me
Might be a doctor or a teacher or pauper
Only fate can determine how it's supposed to be
[Chorus]
Hard times ain't got no prejudice
Happiness don't have a price
It's love that brings us together
Keeps us holdin' on in hard times
Keeps us holdin' on in hard times