GARY CLARK JR.began playing guitar in 1996 at the ripe young age of 12. Born and raised in Austin, TX, Gary continued to play small gigs throughout his early teens, until he popped on the radar of legendary promoter Clifford Antone, owner of the Austin blues club Antone's. Through Clifford's connections, Gary soon began sitting in and learning from an array of musical icons, including the incomparable Jimmie Vaughan.
Jimmie and others in the Austin music community mentored Gary along his path, facilitating his steady rise, and continued ascent in the Texas music scene. Gary's musical peers, as well as the Austin music community at-large, have showered him with critical acclaim for his galvanized live performances, and fervid expression. At one unexpected point of political recognition, mayor of Austin Kirk Watson proclaimed May 3, 2001 Gary Clark Jr Day. Gary was 18 years old at the time.
Gary went on to win the Austin Music Award for Best Blues and Electric Guitarist on three separate occasions, in addition to receiving awards from various Blues magazines and associations around the country. After playing the nationally televised show Austin City Limits and touring with the likes of artists such as Jimmie Vaughan, Pinetop Perkins, and Doyle Bramhall II, he continued his recording pursuits by releasing three self-produced albums, and creating the original score for the major motion picture Full Count. His creative versatility allowed him to transcend his own musical talents, while also starring as a principal character in John Sayle’s film Honeydripper, alongside actors Danny Glover and Stacy Keach.
Originally known as a blues musician and even compared to such greats as Stevie Ray Vaughan, Albert Collins and Albert King, Gary is stepping out...way out. His upcoming CD will really test his blues fans. Will they appreciate Gary's guitar chops and his soulful voice as he explores other genres? Gary hopes so and he hopes they will continue with him on his journey. And with this new sound, we're thinking Gary will pick up some new fans along the way.
HIs first major label LP "Blak and Blu" was released on October 22, 2012
Feed the Babies
Gary Clark Jr. Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Yeah, it's cold out on them streets
But the world is my buffet child
And I'm just looking to eat
I ain't got no ill intention, I ain't tryin' to compete
But the world is my buffet child
And I'm just looking to eat and
Feed the babies
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
Teach the babies to love
Gotta teach the babies to love
Well it's hard out there for a lady
Sometimes the grass is way too deep
Now women become mothers so our babies get to eat
What you call the struggle and the cycle is complete
What you call the struggle when we're all just looking to eat
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
Teach the babies to love
Gotta teach the babies to love
Oh listen, brothers, sisters, mother, father
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
Teach the babies to love
Gotta teach the babies to love
Oh listen now
In "Feed The Babies," Gary Clark Jr. touches on the struggles and hardships faced by individuals in society, particularly men and women. The lyrics convey a sense of the harsh realities faced by people living on the streets, where it can be challenging to survive. Clark emphasizes the coldness of the world and the need for sustenance, metaphorically comparing life to a buffet. He expresses a desire to find security and nourishment, without any ill intentions or a desire to compete with others.
The recurring motif of feeding the babies suggests a deeper meaning. Metaphorically, the babies represent the future generations and the need to provide them with the necessary tools, guidance, and love. Clark calls upon the compatriots, addressing brothers and sisters, and pleading with mothers and fathers to take responsibility. By acknowledging that everyone walks the same path, he highlights the importance of unity and community in raising and nurturing children. Teachings and communication are essential, as represented by the instruction to teach the babies to talk. Conveying love is also a vital part of their upbringing, as illustrated by the repeated call to teach the babies to love.
Further into the song, Clark shifts the focus to women and their role as mothers. He recognizes the unique struggles faced by women. Despite the challenges, he highlights the resilience of women who become mothers. The cycle of life and survival is complete when women are able to provide for their babies. The difference between the struggle they face and the struggles of others is blurred, emphasizing the universal human desire for basic necessities, like food and security.
In the final repetition of the chorus, Clark emphasizes the need for collective action. He addresses the entire audience as brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers, once again emphasizing unity. The call to stand up for a cause reminds listeners of the importance of advocacy for the betterment of society. Clark brings the focus back to teaching the babies to love, underscoring the significance of fostering compassion, empathy, and understanding in future generations.
Overall, "Feed The Babies" serves as a reminder of the shared challenges faced by individuals within society and the responsibility to support and nurture the next generation. The song encourages unity, communication, and love as essential elements for creating a better future.
Line by Line Meaning
Well it's hard out there for a man
Life can be challenging for men
Yeah, it's cold out on them streets
The world can be harsh and unforgiving
But the world is my buffet child
I see endless opportunities and possibilities in the world
And I'm just looking to eat
I am seeking success and fulfillment
I ain't got no ill intention, I ain't tryin' to compete
I have no malicious motives, I don't want to engage in rivalry
Feed the babies
Provide for the needs of the young ones
Gotta feed the babies now yeah
It's crucial to nourish and support the young ones immediately
So come on brothers and sisters
Let's unite, regardless of gender
It's the same path you walk
We all face similar challenges in life
Come on mothers and fathers
Parents, take action
Teach the babies to talk
Educate the young ones to communicate
It starts with a song
Promote positive change through music
Stand up for your cause
Take a stand for what you believe in
Teach the babies to love
Teach the young ones to embrace love and compassion
Well it's hard out there for a lady
Women face their own unique challenges
Sometimes the grass is way too deep
Difficulties can be overwhelming
Now women become mothers so our babies get to eat
Women take on the role of nurturing to ensure their children's well-being
What you call the struggle and the cycle is complete
The hardships endured are necessary for the growth and development of the next generation
What you call the struggle when we're all just looking to eat
The challenges we face are just part of the pursuit of survival and success
Oh listen, brothers, sisters, mother, father
Pay attention, everyone
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Gary Clark Jr.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
The_Negative_Optimist
[Intro]
Ah
Listen, listen, listen, listen
Listen
[Verse 1]
Well, it's hard out there for a man
Yeah, it's cold out on the streets
But the world is my buffet, child
And I'm just looking to eat
I ain't got no attention
I ain't tryin' to compete
But the world is my buffet, child
And I'm just looking to eat
And feed the babies, oh
Gotta feed the babies now, yeah
[Chorus]
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
And teach the babies to love
Gotta teach the babies to love
[Verse 2]
It's hard out there for a lady
Sometimes the grass is way too deep
Now women become mothers so our babies get to eat
What do you call the struggle when the cycle is complete?
What do you call the struggle when we're all just looking to eat?
[Chorus]
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
And teach the babies to love, yeah
Oh, gotta teach the babies to love
[Bridge]
Oh, listen now
(Brother, sister, mother, father)
(Brother, sister, mother, father)
[Chorus]
So come on brothers and sisters
It's the same path you walk
Come on mothers and fathers
Teach the babies to talk
Come on brothers and sisters
It starts with a song
Come on mothers and fathers
Stand up for your cause
And teach the babies to love, yeah
Gotta teach the babies to love, yeah
What can I say except you’re welcome😂🤷🏼♀️
Jakub Wojtas
hard curtis mayfield's vibes, love it!
dogun23
That Freddie's Dead vibe
Ak T
Haha exactly what I said to myself during the first seconds. And he made it personal
HorizonChaser
A few of his Vocals on tracks are putting me in a Serious Marvin Gaye vibe. This is one of my favorite albums from the last couple years. Kind of album you just have to be patient for. If you're lucky it comes.
Elizabeth McLeod
I agree. I get Marvin vibes to.
Samad Arrjdal
i just love this song so freaking much , the base is amazing , try guys to listen to this albume while smoking a joint
DOPE
Jan Vanmaanen
Can’t wait to see you live Gary. All the best for you and your family (from holland)
DyLaN
One of my favorite artist to listen to of this generation. Love him!! He's so sick. This album has to be one of his best.
Victor Hugo
This is so freakin underrated, this man deserves to be more heard, cheers for him...
Mr.F
I've been searching for this song for so long! FINALLY! I FOUND IT!