I've told you once, now I tell you twice
I'm not gonna be a fool
I've told you once, now I tell you twice
I'm not gonna be a fool
'Cause when it comes down to my heart
It's not gonna be abused
I've told you once, now I tell you twice
I'm not gonna be a fool
'Cause when it comes down to my heart
It's not gonna be abused

Now I've been knocked down and stepped on
And it's cold down on the floor
And I don't recall seein' your head
When I couldn't take anymore

Back it up, don't just tell me that your love's for real
You've got to prove what you really feel
Don't just say you wanna be my man
I've got to know that you understand

Hey, boy, you'b better back it up
Oh-ah, ah, you'd better, better back it up

Now I'm not tryna judge you
Your intentions might be fine
The last time I trusted someone
All I could do was break down and cry
When it comes to heartache and pain
There'll be no déjà vu
Back it up, don't need no one to wipe their feet on my heart
I've got to know that it's love from the start

You hugs and kisses, they don't, uh, mean a thing
I've got to know that it's real love you bring
If you want some love, give some, uh, in return
'Cause it's my love you're gonna have to earn
I need someone to show me that they care
I need a man who will always be there

I need a man who will always be there
Oh-ah, ah, you'd better, better back it up

I've told you once, now I tell you twice
I've told you once, now I tell you twice
I've told you once, now I tell you twice