His early folk inspiration, years on the Texas scene, an affinity for pop m… Read Full Bio ↴His early folk inspiration, years on the Texas scene, an affinity for pop music and a love for bluegrass all weave in and out of his composing. Always, it is original, inspired and able to strike deep chords with his listeners. It deals with real issues through real insight.

In many ways, this award-winning singer/songwriter’s life has come full circle. From his first public performances as a 12-year old in a trio with his older brother and sister, all the way through his many prestigious awards, Bruce’s musical path has been fruitful, if not always straight. He began his career in secular music, inspired as a kid by the harmonies and convictions of Peter, Paul and Mary. He pursued his dream of being a professional folk musician through the bars and supper clubs across Texas and beyond.

Here I Go Again
Bruce Carroll Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Looking over my shoulder it's a wonder i can laugh at all
When i get a better view of the shape i'm in
If i listen to the critics the future is a lost cause
I might as well pack it up and cash it in
In the middle of the madness a man gets tempted to negotiate
Strike a deal sell a soul for the compromise
Then a voice like a bell makes him turn around the other way
The lesson cuts like a knife but the man survives

Call an act of God's own mercy
Call it a case of more then the eye can see
Call it faith or just wishful thinking
But the darker it gets the more that i believe
So here i go again
Here i go again
The wise man said most people die with the music still inside of them
What a shame in a world so in need of a song
As long as my heart has a rhythm you're gonna hear from me again (again)
I got a melody or two before i'm gone
Call an act of God's own mercy
Call it a case of more then the eye can see
Call it faith or just wishful thinking
But the darker it gets the more that i believe
So here i go again
Here i go again (and again)
Call an act of God's own mercy
Call it a case of more then the eye can see
Call it faith or just wishful thinking
But the darker it gets the more that i believe
Call an act of God's own mercy
Call it a case of more then the eye can see
Call it faith or just wishful thinking
But the darker it gets the more that i believe
So here i go again (go again)

Here i go again
Here i go again

Overall Meaning

The song "Here I Go Again" by Bruce Carroll is about perseverance and faith in the face of adversity. The opening lyrics show a sense of disbelief that one can still laugh despite the struggles faced, and the contemplation of giving up because of criticisms from the naysayers. However, the song moves on to describe how in the midst of chaos and temptation to compromise, a voice calls out for the person to turn around and choose a different path. The lyrics speak of this moment as a "lesson" and "act of God's own mercy", and the person emerges from it with a strengthened conviction and belief in what they're doing.

The lyrics later mention how the wise man says that most people die with the music still inside of them, which alludes to the idea that many die without fully tapping into their potential or leaving their mark on the world. The singer of the song is determined to not let that happen, stating that they have a "melody or two before [they're] gone". The song ends with a repeating chorus of "here I go again", which encapsulates the idea of never giving up, being persistent, and always moving forward.

Overall, the song is uplifting and encourages listeners to have faith in themselves and a higher power. It speaks to the struggle that many face when pursuing their dreams, but assures them that there is light at the end of the tunnel if they keep pushing through.

Line by Line Meaning

Looking over my shoulder it's a wonder i can laugh at all
Despite my troubled past, it is remarkable that I can still find joy in life.

When i get a better view of the shape i'm in
Taking a step back to evaluate my current situation shows me the harsh reality of my struggles.

If i listen to the critics the future is a lost cause
I must not let the negative words of others determine my fate and direction in life.

I might as well pack it up and cash it in
Thinking of giving up and quitting entirely seems like a viable option.

In the middle of the madness a man gets tempted to negotiate
When faced with chaos and confusion, one may consider compromising their values or morals.

Strike a deal sell a soul for the compromise
Trading away personal integrity for temporary gains seems like a plausible solution to troubles.

Then a voice like a bell makes him turn around the other way
An internal voice, like an angel or conscience, persuades the individual to make a different choice.

The lesson cuts like a knife but the man survives
Although it may hurt and be a difficult experience, the individual learns from the choice they did not make and continues on.

Call an act of God's own mercy
Consider the positive outcome to be a miracle or divine intervention.

Call it a case of more then the eye can see
The full extent and impact of the situation is far greater than what is initially visible.

Call it faith or just wishful thinking
Believe in something greater or hold onto a hope against all logical reasoning and doubt.

But the darker it gets the more that i believe
The harder and more challenging the situation becomes, the stronger my faith and hope grows.

The wise man said most people die with the music still inside of them
Many people do not fully express themselves or reach their potential in life due to fear or limiting beliefs.

What a shame in a world so in need of a song
It is unfortunate that the world could benefit greatly from the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals.

As long as my heart has a rhythm you're gonna hear from me again (again)
As long as I have a beating heart and passion within me, I will continue to create and share my music.

I got a melody or two before i'm gone
I still have more creativity and inspiration to share and give before my life ends.

Here i go again
Once again, I am pushing past obstacles and challenges to follow my passions and dreams.

Call an act of God's own mercy
Give credit to a higher power or force for the positive outcomes or blessings experienced in life.

So here i go again (go again)
Once again, I am stepping up to face my challenges and continue moving forward in my journey.

Here i go again
Once again, I am resilient and determined to overcome any obstacles in my way.

Writer(s): Billy Sprague, Bruce Allen Carroll

Contributed by Jonathan N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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