The Meaning Behind The Song: We Are Young by Fun.
One of the biggest hits of 2012 was “We Are Young” by the band Fun. The song was not only catchy but also poignant, striking a chord with many people. The lyrics capture a feeling of youthfulness, wildness, and freedom, while also acknowledging the challenges and pain of being young. In this article, we explore the meaning behind the song and why it resonated with so many people.
The Story Behind the Song
The song was written by Fun’s lead singer Nate Ruess, in collaboration with Jack Antonoff and Andrew Dost, the other two members of the band. Ruess said that the song was inspired by a friend’s dysfunctional relationship. The friend felt trapped in a bad situation but also felt like he had no choice but to go through with it.
The song’s opening lines capture this feeling of being stuck in a bad situation: “Give me a second I, I need to get my story straight. My friends are in the bathroom getting higher than the Empire State.”
The chorus, “We are young, we are free, we are chained,” reflects the contradiction many young people feel in their lives. On one hand, they are free and wild, with no responsibilities holding them back. On the other hand, they feel like they are in chains, bound by societal expectations, family pressures, and personal demons.
The Message of Empowerment
Despite the lyrics’ melancholic tone, the song’s overall message is one of empowerment. The chorus is a declaration of independence and strength. The lyrics say that even though life can be tough, we are still young, and we have the power to overcome our problems.
The bridge of the song is especially powerful. It says, “If by the time the bar closes, and you feel like falling down, I’ll carry you home tonight.” This line is a message of support and solidarity, showing that even when we feel lost or alone, there are people who care and who will help us through the hard times.
The Relevance of the Song Today
“We Are Young” has remained popular since its release in 2012, and it continues to resonate with people today. The song’s message of youthfulness and strength is still relevant, and the lyrics’ honesty and vulnerability have made it a favorite among young and old alike.
Many people today still feel like they are chained, whether by societal pressures, economic hardship, or personal struggles. The coronavirus pandemic has only heightened these feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
But “We Are Young” reminds us that even in tough times, we have the power to survive and thrive. The song is a call to arms, a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that we have the power to overcome even the greatest challenges.
The Music Itself
Of course, the lyrics are only part of what makes “We Are Young” such a great song. The music itself is upbeat and catchy, with a driving beat and soaring vocals that capture the feeling of freedom and wildness.
The song’s instrumentation is also noteworthy, with a full-band sound that includes drums, guitar, piano, and even a string section. The music starts simply with a piano and builds to a grand crescendo, adding more instruments and layers as the song progresses.
Overall, “We Are Young” is a masterful example of songwriting and music production. It captures the essence of youthfulness and the struggles of growing up, all while remaining upbeat and empowering.
The Legacy of the Song
“We Are Young” has left a lasting legacy on popular music. The song won several awards, including a Grammy for Song of the Year in 2013. It has been covered by numerous artists, and its message of strength and youthfulness has resonated with people from all walks of life.
But perhaps the greatest legacy of the song is the way it has inspired and uplifted people. The song’s message of empowerment and support has helped countless people through tough times. It reminds us that even when life gets tough, we are still young, and we have the power to overcome the challenges that come our way.
Conclusion
“We Are Young” by Fun is more than just a catchy song—it’s a powerful anthem of youthfulness, strength, and empowerment. Its lyrics capture the contradictions and struggles of being young, while its music uplifts and inspires. The song’s legacy lives on, inspiring people to stand up for themselves and find strength in their youthfulness.
