[Verse 1]
There's the image of a man who commands a high opinion
But he hides his hatred with a sheepish grin
And beside him, flanking closely, are the boisterous hollow masses
Who lap up whatever trickles in
This intercourse of nature, this vulgar social pastime
Reflects the lowest mark of our progress
And the few who ride peripheral maintain subtle advantage
Fighting hard to abstain and redress

[Pre-Chorus]
Do you know your place
In the big charade?
Are you more than they?

[Chorus]
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers

[Bridge]
Recognition by proximity and a brand new face
Just a smidgen of success pie and a pinch of social grace
You can play with the big boys
Or you can tell them what to do
But sooner or later, there's another one like you
[Guitar Solo]

[Verse 2]
The voyeuristic public of which we're all a part
Maintains perspective on the human play
And while many hold desires of joining in the show
Many turn and go the other way

[Pre-Chorus]
Tell me, do you know your place
In the big parade?
Are you fear and shame?

[Chorus]
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers
Leaders and followers