The band broke up in 2023 following sexual assault allegations against Sane and their social media accounts being deleted. Various sources close to the band state that the breakup was made exclusively by Sane, with the other band members being unaware of the allegations until after.
Tearing Everyone Down
Anti-Flag Lyrics
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But the more things change, the more they stay the same
Back stabbing and name calling, the trade marks of your act
You talk and talk of unity, but divide with your attacks
(You say), "I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change, but I'm too busy...
All us kids, we try to make a change
Some kids start a band, others start a zine
YOU, no matter what your path
You throw a curve in what could be achieved,
Then give up and move onto some other thing
(You say), "I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change, but I'm too busy...
Tearing everyone down..."
Take a break
from your fights,
try to open up your mind tonight
When you feel
that's complete
then we can tackle this society!
You may not like
everything in life I do...
But that doesn't mean,
I'm not trying to change,
the same problems as you
(You say), "I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change,
I'd like to see a change, but I'm too busy...
Tearing everyone down..."
The song "Tearing Everyone Down" by Anti-Flag is a criticism of people who claim to want change but engage in behaviors that hinder progress. The lyrics touch on the theme of hypocrisy that runs throughout society, particularly with those who have the power to effect change. The opening lines express the frustration of the singer who had hoped for progress, only to witness the stagnation of society. The more things change, the more they stay the same, reflecting a pessimistic view of progress. Moreover, the chorus of "I’d like to see a change, but I'm too busy tearing everyone down" conveys the frustration of the singer with those who claim to want change but spend all their energy fighting and tearing others down instead of taking positive action.
The second verse directs the critic to the youth - especially to those who try to make a difference through various means such as music, publications or in other ways. The song's message is clear: everyone has a role to play in changing society, and those who stop to criticize and lay blame ultimately cheapen the efforts of those trying to change things. The refrain "I'd like to see a change" implies that change is necessary and appreciated, but disregard any pity-party you're having for yourself or your ego issues, trying to belittle and destroy others. The song ends on a slightly hopeful note with suggestions to step back and take a break from fights, for reflection, and then only shall we confront the issues that plague today's society.
Line by Line Meaning
I thought I'd begun to see a change
I believed that progress was being made in society.
But the more things change, the more they stay the same
Despite efforts to bring about change, the underlying issues remain and persist.
Backstabbing and name-calling, the trademarks of your act
Your behavior is characterized by betrayal and insults towards others.
You talk and talk of unity, but divide with your attacks
You claim to seek unity, but your constant attacks only lead to further division.
You say, 'I'd like to see a change, I'd like to see a change, I'd like to see a change, but I'm too busy...Tearing everyone down...'
You claim to want change, but instead of working towards it, you spend your time tearing others down.
All us kids, we try to make a change
The younger generation is actively working to bring about positive change.
Some kids start a band, others start a zine
Different individuals express their desire for change through various artistic means.
YOU, no matter what your path, you throw a curve in what could be achieved, then give up and move onto some other thing
Regardless of your chosen path, you hinder progress and give up easily instead of persevering towards achieving real change.
Take a break from your fights, try to open up your mind tonight
Stop your constant conflict and be receptive to new ideas.
When you feel that's complete, then we can tackle this society!
Only when individuals are willing to compromise and be open-minded can society as a whole work towards progress.
You may not like everything in life I do...But that doesn't mean, I'm not trying to change, the same problems as you
People may not agree with each other, but that doesn't mean they're not working towards similar goals of progress and social change.
Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing
Written by: CHRISTOPHER LEE BARKER, PATRICK C. BOLLINGER, JUSTIN CATHAL GEEVER, CHRISTOPHER MARK HEAD, PATRICK C BOLLINGER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind