I Got A Name
10. Jim Croce Lyrics
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I've got a name, I've got a name
Like the singin' bird and the croakin' toad
I've got a name, I've got a name
And I carry it with me like my daddy did
But I'm living the dream that he kept hid
Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway
Like the north wind whistlin' down the sky
I've got a song, I've got a song
Like the whippoorwill and the baby's cry
I've got a song, I've got a song
And I carry it with me and I sing it loud
If it gets me nowhere, I'll go there proud
Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
And I'm gonna go there free
Like the fool I am and I'll always be
I've got a dream, I've got a dream
They can change their minds but they can't change me
I've got a dream, I've got a dream
Oh, I know I could share it if you want me to
If you're goin' my way, I'll go with you
Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
In Jim Croce's song "I Got A Name," the lyrics portray a message of embracing one's identity and pursuing their dreams, regardless of societal expectations or limitations. The metaphor of the pine trees lining the winding road represents the journey of life, with each individual having a unique name and purpose. The lyrics "but I'm living the dream that he kept hid" suggest that the singer's father had dreams and aspirations that he never fulfilled, but the singer is determined to break that cycle and live their dream.
The chorus, "Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway, movin' ahead so life won't pass me by" conveys a sense of urgency in pursuing one's goals, and not letting life pass by without taking action. The second verse highlights the importance of music and how it can provide comfort and motivation. The lyrics "like the whippoorwill and the baby's cry, I've got a song" suggest that the music is a part of the singer's identity, and they will continue to sing their song even if it does not lead them to success.
The final verse signifies the determination and independence of the singer, stating "they can change their minds, but they can't change me." The lyrics "I know I could share it if you want me to, if you're goin' my way, I'll go with you" implies that the singer is willing to share their dream and journey with others who have similar ambitions.
Overall, Jim Croce's "I Got A Name" urges listeners to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams with determination and perseverance.
Line by Line Meaning
Like the pine trees linin' the windin' road
Just like how the pine trees line the windy road, I too have something that defines me
I've got a name, I've got a name
I have a unique identity that I value
Like the singin' bird and the croakin' toad
As the singing bird and croaking toad have their own unique sounds, I too have something that sets me apart
And I carry it with me like my daddy did
I am proud of who I am and I carry myself with the same pride as my father did
But I'm living the dream that he kept hid
I have a dream that my father may have had but was not able to live, and I am making it a reality
Movin' me down the highway, rollin' me down the highway
I am moving forward along my journey without letting anything hold me back
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
I am making the most out of my life by always moving forward and not staying stagnant
Like the north wind whistlin' down the sky
Just as the north wind whistles through the sky, I too have a unique song that I carry with me
I've got a song, I've got a song
I have a passion and talent that I value and will never let go
If it gets me nowhere, I'll go there proud
Even if my dreams and passions don't lead me anywhere tangible, I will still go after them with pride and confidence
And I'm gonna go there free
I am not going to let anything hold me back from achieving my dreams and living life freely
Like the fool I am and I'll always be
I may be seen as foolish for going after my dreams, but I will always be true to who I am
They can change their minds but they can't change me
People's opinions may change, but I will always stay true to myself and follow my own path
Oh, I know I could share it if you want me to
I am willing to share my dreams and passions with others if they are interested
If you're goin' my way, I'll go with you
If someone wants to join me on my journey, I will welcome them and go with them
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Charles Fox, Norman Gimbel
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind