The Meaning Behind The Song: Out of Tune by The Backseat Lovers
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Tune | The Backseat Lovers | Ethan John Christensen, Jonas Tyler Swanson, Jonathon Taylor Welch & Joshua Robert Harmon | Elevator Days | May 11, 2018 | Rock, Indie Rock, Alternative Rock | The Backseat Lovers (self-produced) |
Out of Tune by The Backseat Lovers is a song that takes me back to my childhood, filled with nostalgia and memories of discovering music and learning to play the guitar. It tells a story of the journey of becoming a musician and the influence of a close friend who played a significant role in shaping the narrator’s aspirations and identity.
The song begins with the line, “All the old containers that I fill with my past, You can find them on the second floor under my bed.” This particular verse paints a vivid picture of the protagonist’s reminiscing, as he reflects on the things that hold sentimental value to him. These objects represent the memories he cherishes, perhaps old cassette tapes, or even mementos of his early attempts at songwriting.
The lyrics continue to describe the protagonist’s past experiences, highlighting the simplicity and innocence of youth. “I miss the days when girls were scary, Scarier than spiders” captures the hesitations and uncertainties that come with navigating new relationships during adolescence. It’s a sentiment many can relate to, as the awkwardness of budding romances can feel overwhelming in those early encounters.
The relationship with the friend serves as a central theme in the song. The lines, “You took a prepubescent kid and showed him to the world, Introduced him to rock n’ roll, YouTube, and girls” depict the friend’s influence, exposing the protagonist to the wonders and possibilities of music. The impact of this person on the narrator’s life is emphasized by the line, “My mama said you were a bad influence, But I’ve never been influenced by anyone that could Write or sing or make up shit as cool as you did.”
The chorus acts as a declaration of gratitude and camaraderie, reinforcing the deep bond between the two friends. “You made me who I am, You had my back and I had yours” speaks to the mutual support they provided each other. The line, “We were just a couple of posers with guitars, That were always out of tune” conveys a sense of authenticity and rawness in their pursuit of music. It symbolizes the imperfections and learning curves that accompany any artistic journey.
The song goes on to describe the struggles faced by the protagonists as they chase their dreams. Working low-paying jobs and hustling their way into the music scene, they encounter setbacks but refuse to let those setbacks define them. The lyrics paint a picture of resilience and determination, culminating in the line, “Started a band without a drummer or a mic, Got a show within a week, That I thought would be the show to change my life.”
Listening to this song takes me back to my own experiences as a young musician, exploring my passion for music and the friendships that fueled my creativity. I remember the late nights spent writing songs, the excitement of performing in small venues, and the shared dreams of making it big. While my journey may have taken a different path, the feelings of nostalgia and camaraderie remain the same.
Out of Tune is not just a song; it’s a reminder of the power of music and the impact it has on our lives. It’s a tribute to the friendships that shape us and the dreams that drive us forward. It serves as a poignant reminder to embrace the imperfections and to cherish the journey, knowing that it’s the shared experiences and the love for music that truly matters.
