C. Thomas Howell as the "Soul Man" Lyrics

Lyric discussion by hangover grenade 

Cover art for C. Thomas Howell as the

"Soul Man" was an 80's comedy about a white guy, played by C. Thomas Howell, who pretends to be black to get a college scholarship. He's plays the character in black face. It's pretty offensive.

I guess that makes the song about being someone else for financial reasons.