Ian Brown (born February 20th 1963 in Warrington, England) was the lead sin… Read Full Bio ↴Ian Brown (born February 20th 1963 in Warrington, England) was the lead singer in former British band The Stone Roses and following their split in 1996 has gone on to have a successful solo career releasing a total of six studio albums, with one greatest hits compilation, and remixes disc. He is considered to be an influential artist with followers such as Oasis, The Verve, Blur, Kasabian, Arctic Monkeys and many more. He has had twelve UK top 40 singles and has sold over 9 million albums as a solo artist.

Allegedly nicknamed "King Monkey" by Dodgy's drummer Mathew Priest. Brown is well known to standout from the crowd and had his own unique style, whilst in The Roses he used to often wear big baggy flares and his landmark t-shirt with banknotes on. He now has a more casual look: Adidas Jackets, tracksuit bottoms, army trousers and a pair of shades. He is also recognisable for his varying hairstyles including: Blonde mohawk (early Stone Roses days) short (also early Stone roses days) undercut (similar to John Squire's) Big Hair (1989) bob cut (early 90's) Skinhead and his most well known hairdo long and shaggy with a fringe.

He has had two top 5 singles in the UK, My Star and Dolphins Were Monkeys. In 2005 he collaborated with Noel Gallagher from Oasis for the track Keep What Ya Got. He has also collaborated with U.N.K.L.E. on two tracks, 1999's Be There and Reign in 2004.

Recently Brown has started playing Stone Roses songs during gigs, fuelling speculation that a reunion may be on the cards. But In September 2005 Ian appeared to rule out a Stone Roses reunion saying "there's more chance of me reforming the Happy Mondays than the Roses". Happy Mondays in fact have reformed, but yet Brown appears pessimistic about a likelihood of any reunion. A reunion would also hinge on the co-operation of Roses guitarist John Squire who recently stated his desire to turn his back on music and focus on painting.

His latest album, My Way, was released September 2009.

Intro Under The Paving Stones: The Beach
Ian Brown Lyrics

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Intro Under The Paving Stones: The Beach contains no lyrics

Overall Meaning

"Under the paving stones" is a phrase that originated in France during the student protests in 1968. It refers to the idea that beneath the concrete and structure of society, there is a potential for something more, a hidden vitality waiting to be uncovered. Ian Brown's song, "09. under the paving stones," alludes to this concept, suggesting that our lives and society as a whole may be hiding a deeper truth.

The lyrics in "09. under the paving stones" emphasize the importance of uncovering the truth and questioning the status quo. Brown sings, "Ask yourself why / Do we believe the lies / And accept the unfairness and the hate / Maybe it's time to choose a different fate." The song suggests that we need to break down the structures of society that maintain inequalities and question the values and beliefs we hold to create a better future.

The chorus of the song includes the repeated phrase, "It's a long way down," which suggests that the task of uncovering the truth and creating positive change requires hard work and perseverance. The song goes on to explore the idea of a revolution, questioning whether it's necessary to tear down the old order in order to create something new and more just.

Overall, Ian Brown's "09. under the paving stones" is a call to action, encouraging listeners to look beneath the surface of their lives and society to uncover the truth and work towards a better future.

Line by Line Meaning

The future is in the past
The way things used to be is the key to moving forward

There's no time like the present
There's no better opportunity than right now

You can all look what you want
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion

But I got my eyes on the road
I'm focused on my goals and not distracted by others'

Sunbathe in shade
Taking time to relax can be enjoyed even in less than ideal circumstances

Stay young in your mind
Age doesn't have to dictate one's mindset

Don't look back in anger
Leave the negative emotions of the past behind

The future is in the past
The way things used to be is the key to moving forward

Under the paving stones, the beach
Even in the midst of chaos and destruction, there is still beauty and hope

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: BROWN, Ian Brown

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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