I Know My Rights

By Mr. Rangel

I’m proud to be living in the U.S.A.

Because we have certain rights that no one can take away

Our founding fathers gave them to us way back when

And they’ve been there to protect our freedoms ever since then

They called these rights amendments and they’re part of the Constitution

They wrote them right after we won the American Revolution

Listen as I tell you each amendment one by one

You’ll be surprised when you realize that when this song is done…

I know my rights

So don’t tell me what to write; don’t tell me what to say

Don’t tell me where to go to church; Don’t tell me how to pray

Amendment number one says I can choose that on my own

So unless you’re looking for trouble, you better leave this boy alone

I know my rights

When I go a hunting and have a little outdoor fun

The animals run for cover when they see me and my gun

But don’t try and take it away from me cause then I’ll have to fight with you.

I’m guaranteed that right under amendment number two


I know my rights

A soldier came to my house was knocking on my door

Said he was moving in I had to sleep there on the floor

I said wait a minute buddy you can’t do that to me

Go take a look in your history book under amendment number three


I know my rights

The police were in my house and they were going through all my stuff

I said hey there Mr. policeman I think that’s quite enough

Unless you have a search warrant I must show you the door

You didn’t know I was an expert in Amendment number four


I know my rights

Arrest me if you want but you can’t make me testify

I’ll plead the fifth amendment and that right you can’t deny

And if I’m found not guilty better not arrest me again

Because that would be double jeopardy and you can’t do that my friend


I know my rights

So they took me before the judge and I gave her the Rangel smile

I said judge I know I have a right to a quick and speedy trial

Amendment number six says I shouldn’t have to wait

To prove that I’m not guilty, so can you hurry it’s getting late


I know my rights

The judge was not too nice; she was mean and kind of rude

She said you’re going to trial, and I’m going to judge you dude

I said hold on there your honor; I’ve got news to make you worry

Amendment number seven says I can be judged by a jury


I know my rights

But if you find me guilty, You had better play it cool

And don’t give me a punishment that is unusual or cruel

I’ve read about amendment number eight in my history book

Believe it or not your honor: I’m not as stupid as I look


I know my rights

So pay attention class and learn this lesson well

Study hard and you’ll be as smart as Mr. Rangel

Remember what I’ve taught you. You might need it someday

You never know when you’ll have to go before someone and say


I know my rights