Who Are You
Bleeding Knees Club Lyrics


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Who are you to tell me what to do?
I thought you knew that we were through
Who are you to tell me what to say?
I told myself, "No, not today"

But who are you to tell me what to do?
To tell me what to do
Who are you to tell me what to wear?
I thought you knew that I didn't care
Who are you to tell me how to dress?
Look at yourself, you are such a mess

But who are you to tell me what to do?
To tell me what to do

Why should I waste my time
Waste my life, all on you?

But who are you to tell me what to do?
Oh, who are you to tell me what to do?




Oh, who are you to tell me what to do?
To tell me what to do

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to "Who Are You" by Bleeding Knees Club express a sense of defiance and independence towards someone who tries to exert control and influence over the singer's life. The repeated question of "Who are you to tell me what to do?" reflects a rejection of authority and a refusal to conform to the expectations and judgments of others.


In the first verse, the singer asserts that they believed the relationship with this person was over, and therefore questions their right to dictate the singer's actions. By stating "I told myself, 'No, not today,'" the singer is affirming their own autonomy and self-determination, refusing to be swayed by outside influence.


The second verse continues this defiance, as the singer questions the person's authority in dictating their appearance and style. Rejecting the notion that they should conform to societal standards, the singer derides the person's own disheveled and unkempt appearance, suggesting that they are in no position to judge.


The chorus, with its repetition of the central question, serves as a powerful statement of the singer's refusal to be controlled and their determination to forge their own path. It reflects a sense of rebellion against societal norms and expectations, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and self-expression.


Line by Line Meaning

Who are you to tell me what to do?
I don't see you as someone who has the authority or right to dictate my actions.


I thought you knew that we were through
I believed that you were aware that our relationship or connection was over.


Who are you to tell me what to say?
I don't see you as someone who has the authority or right to control my words.


I told myself, 'No, not today'
I made a conscious decision to refuse your influence or commands.


But who are you to tell me what to do?
Despite your attempt to control me, I question your legitimacy or authority.


To tell me what to do
To exert your influence or authority over my actions.


Who are you to tell me what to wear?
I don't see you as someone who has the authority or right to dictate my clothing choices.


I thought you knew that I didn't care
I believed that you were aware that I am indifferent towards your opinions.


Who are you to tell me how to dress?
I don't see you as someone who has the authority or right to control my attire.


Look at yourself, you are such a mess
Directing attention to your own state, highlighting that you lack the credibility or stability to give me guidance.


Why should I waste my time
There is no reason for me to expend my time or energy on you.


Waste my life, all on you?
Giving considerable thought to dedicating my entire existence or future solely to you? No. It's not justified.


But who are you to tell me what to do?
Despite your attempt to control me, I question your legitimacy or authority.


Oh, who are you to tell me what to do?
Emphasizing my disbelief in your ability or right to dictate my actions.


To tell me what to do
To exert your influence or authority over my actions.


Oh, who are you to tell me what to do?
Expressing my skepticism towards your ability or right to control me.


Oh, who are you to tell me what to do?
Reiterating my doubts about your legitimacy in commanding my actions.


To tell me what to do
To assert your influence or authority over my actions.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Jordan Malane, Alexander Wall

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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