Phillips began Toad the Wet Sprocket in 1986. By 1988, they had signed with Columbia Records. After recording six albums and playing many major tours, they disbanded in 1998.
During his time in Toad the Wet Sprocket, Phillips was involved in a pop rock project called flapping, Flapping.
Three years later, following the breakup of Toad, Phillips released his first solo album, Abulum, which was a change from the sound that Toad the Wet Sprocket was known for. This was followed up by a self-released live album and solo touring, along with a reunion tour with his former Toad bandmates
In 2004, Phillips, with Nickel Creek, released a long-awaited collaboration as Mutual Admiration Society. The self-titled album had been recorded in 2000 and featured songs written by both Phillips alone and as collaborative efforts, and was released on Sugar Hill Records.
In 2005, Phillips returned to a major label via Universal Records' Lost Highway imprint and released the critically acclaimed Winter Pays For Summer. The album included the radio single "Duck and Cover," but Phillips and the label would part ways due to some creative differences.
Phillips released his third proper solo album, Mr. Lemons in the spring of 2006. The music video for the album's first single, "Everything But You," made its debut as a Yahoo! Exclusive Premiere on May 11, 2006.
Simple
Glen Phillips Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'm agitation, distorted sound
You're celebration, a girl on a swing
Passion and patience, an unbroken ring
It's simple, simple, simple
You're simply all I need
I'm jagged rock, you waterfall
Till I am smooth, till I allow
Till I can bend, until I bow
It's simple, simple, simple
You're simply all I need
I'm jagged rock, you waterfall
Your gentle touch, you wear me down
Twilight sleep
I want to forget everything
These last years
Tear them away
I want to be simple again
Simple, simple, simple
You're simply all I need
Simple
You're simply all I need
In the song Simple by Glen Phillips, the lyrics describe a relationship between two people where one party is complicated and agitated, while the other person is a source of celebration and simplicity. The singer describes themselves as a "live wire down," indicating that they are volatile and liable to cause harm. Meanwhile, the other person is a "girl on a swing" - carefree and joyful. The two characters are juxtaposed in stark contrast, with the singer describing their own flaws before highlighting the other person's strengths. The singer goes on to describe how the other person's touch can wear them down until they are "smooth" and able to bend to their will. The song ends with the singer expressing a desire to be simple again and stating that the other person is all they need.
The overall message of the song seems to be about finding simplicity and ease in a world that can be full of chaos and complication. The contrast between the two characters underscores this theme, as the singer longs to be more like the other person with their easygoing nature. The idea of simplicity is reinforced through the repetition of the word "simple" throughout the song, as well as the use of imagery like the "girl on the swing" and the idea of being worn down until one can bend and bow.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm complication, live wire down
I have a tangled and complex nature that can be explosive and erratic.
I'm agitation, distorted sound
I cause distress and unease, like a dissonant noise.
You're celebration, a girl on a swing
You bring joy and delight, like a child enjoying a carefree moment.
Passion and patience, an unbroken ring
You balance ardor and endurance, forming an uninterrupted circle of love.
It's simple, simple, simple
Despite all the noise and confusion, the solution is uncomplicated and clear.
You're simply all I need
You are the only requirement for my well-being.
I'm jagged rock, you waterfall
I am rough and sharp, while you are smooth and flowing.
Your gentle touch, you wear me down
Your soft and tender caress erodes my rough edges and makes me pliable.
Till I am smooth, till I allow
With your help, I become sleek and yielding by accepting your influence.
Till I can bend, until I bow
I become flexible and submissive to you, ready to embrace your lead.
Twilight sleep
A drowsy and somnolent state of mind.
I want to forget everything
I wish to escape from all my troubles and concerns.
These last years
The period of time that has just passed.
Tear them away
Get rid of them completely.
I want to be simple again
I yearn for a less complicated and more contented existence.
Simple, simple, simple
Emphasizing the importance of a straightforward and unpretentious life.
You're simply all I need
Reiterating the central role of the beloved in one's life.
Lyrics © COMPASS RECORDS GROUP INC
Written by: TRISTAN DINGEMANS, CONSTANTINE KARLIS, NEIL PHILLIPS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind