BRIGHTSIDE
The Lumineers Lyrics

The Lumineers's song "Brightside" tells the tale of two lovers who find light in each other amidst a solitary journey. The opening lines, “I can see it in the air, every word was like the smoke from a cigarette you were blowing in your hands,” paint a visual imagery of a cold and lonely setting. The heater has broken down in their car, and the only warmth is that of the cigarette smoke, which symbolizes the distance and tension between the two lovers. However, in the midst of their isolation, they connect through their love for music as they listen to Pink Floyd's "The Dark Side of the Moon." The line “Psilocybin in a hotel room” suggests that they may have taken mind-altering drugs as well. Despite their struggles, the "light" in their eyes seems to be a glimmer of hope that shines through the hardships.

The song’s title "Brightside" comes from the chorus, where the singer vows to be the light in their lover’s life. Even though they seem to be stranded both physically and emotionally, the singer dedicates himself to being the brightness in their darkness. The lyrics show how two people can help each other find light in one another amid dark times. The song concludes with the lyrics "You're stranded on the bridge, the cops are closing in, I'll be your brightside, baby, tonight, tonight, tonight," suggesting that the two lovers may be in trouble but have each other to bring them hope.