Billie Joe Armstrong is best known as the lead guitarist, lead vocalist, and frontman of the popular rock band Green Day.
Elvis Costello specializes in acoustic rock, and has performed with bands such as The Imposters.
Lip Service
Billie Joe Armstrong & Elvis Costello Lyrics
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But I know you're so attractive
Getting in some sharp practice
You better not do anything reckless
But everybody is going through the motions
Everybody is going through the motions
Are you really only going through the motions?
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
But if you change your mind, you can send it in a letter to me
Don't make any sudden movements
These are dangerous amusements
When did you become so choosy?
Don't act like you're above me, just look at your shoes
But everybody is going through the motions
Everybody is going through the motions
Are you really only going through the motions?
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
But if you change your mind, you can send it in a letter to me
But if you change your mind, you can send it in a letter to me
But if you change your mind, you can send it in a letter to me
The lyrics of "Lip Service" by Billie Joe Armstrong and Elvis Costello are about a relationship that is based only on empty words and promises, without any real commitment or feeling behind them. The singer warns their partner not to do anything reckless, but knows that they are attractive and may be tempted to cheat or leave. The chorus repeats the phrase "Lip service is all you'll ever get from me", emphasizing that the singer is not willing to put in any real effort or emotion into the relationship unless their partner proves that they are willing to do the same.
The second verse continues this theme of danger and caution, as the singer urges their partner to be careful and not act like they are above them. The line "just look at your shoes" suggests that the partner is putting on airs or pretending to be someone they're not. The chorus repeats once again, and the song ends with the plea for the partner to send a letter if they ever change their mind and decide to commit fully.
Line by Line Meaning
You left the motor running
You're putting on a front by leaving the engine running, but I know you aren't really going anywhere
But I know you're so attractive
Your good looks are the only thing you have going for you
Getting in some sharp practice
You're being sneaky and practicing deceitful behavior
You better not do anything reckless
Don't do anything stupid or impulsive that you'll regret later
But everybody is going through the motions
Everyone is just going through the motions and not really living life to the fullest
Are you really only going through the motions?
Are you really just going through the motions or are you going to try and live your life to the fullest?
Lip service is all you'll ever get from me
I'm not going to give you anything more than empty words and promises
But if you change your mind, you can send it in a letter to me
If you have a change of heart, you can let me know in a letter
Don't make any sudden movements
Don't do anything sudden or unexpected that could cause harm
These are dangerous amusements
Your risky behavior is not something to be taken lightly
When did you become so choosy?
When did you become so picky and selective about your choices?
Don't act like you're above me, just look at your shoes
Don't act like you're better than me, you're not fooling anyone with your fancy clothes and shoes
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: ELVIS COSTELLO
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind