Originally called Abraham, their lineup fell into place when the previous singer left, and Schmoekel, who was already friends with the band and a member of another local band, suddenly found himself in the group, which resulted in the name change. The quartet issued a demo in 1999, and one of the tracks, "Never, Never, Never," was played on local radio station WEJE.
A year later, Jettingham issued its full-length debut, Neato, which also proved popular on local radio, resulting in the band signing shortly thereafter to the Republic/Universal label. Just before the release of their label self-titled debut in September of 2001, the quartet received another career boost when their song "Cheating" was featured on the soundtrack to the hit movie American Pie 2.
Recognize
Jettingham Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
How I'm supposed to live
You say advice is free
But I thought I made it clear that I didn't want it
You always said that I would never change
That I would always be the same
But this is who I am accept it
Because I'm sure in time you'll find that I am fine
You don't seem to realize that everything has come to this and
I can't seem to find a way to let you know that I don't care
You can't seem to recognize that this is not your life
And it never was
I can't make you understand, I don't give a fuck what you think
And I know that it's always someone else's fault and
Never yours
I'd say you're selfish but I know there's got to be a better word
You're on a power trip and I can see no end to it
I guess you thought I'd learn to accept it
But time is out for you, you're running out of luck
So I have a good idea Just shut the fuck up
You don't seem to realize that everything has come to this and
I can't seem to find a way to let you know that I don't care
You can't seem to recognize that this is not your life
And it never was
I can't make you understand, I don't give a fuck what you think
You don't seem to realize that everything has come to this and
I can't seem to find a way to let you know that I don't care
You can't seem to recognize that this is not your life
And it never was
I can't make you understand, I don't give a fuck what you think
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize
The lyrics of "Recognize" by Jettingham express frustration with someone who is trying to control and influence the singer's life. The singer resents being criticized and micromanaged and feels like they can't escape this person's influence. The chorus emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy, with the repeated refrain of "you don't recognize it's my life." The lyrics also touch on themes of self-acceptance and the need to be true to oneself. The singer asserts that they are who they are and that this should be accepted without judgment.
The song's lyrics are relatable to anyone who has felt suffocated by the expectations of others or struggled to assert their own identity. The chorus, in particular, is a powerful statement of self-determination that can resonate with people facing a wide range of personal challenges. Musically, "Recognize" is a high-energy rock song with driving guitar riffs and punchy vocals that capture the song's rebellious spirit. Overall, "Recognize" is a great example of a rock anthem that channels the frustrations and aspirations of its audience.
Line by Line Meaning
Who the hell do you think you are to tell me
How I'm supposed to live
You have no right to tell me how to live my life
You say advice is free
But I thought I made it clear that I didn't want it
You keep giving me unwanted advice
You always said that I would never change
That I would always be the same
But this is who I am accept it
Because I'm sure in time you'll find that I am fine
Until then you can be sure, I feel like shit
You never believed in me and my ability to grow as a person, but I have changed and you need to accept that. I am struggling with your lack of understanding and support.
You don't seem to realize that everything has come to this and
I can't seem to find a way to let you know that I don't care
You can't seem to recognize that this is not your life
And it never was
I can't make you understand, I don't give a fuck what you think
We have reached a point where our relationship is toxic and I am struggling to communicate to you that I am no longer invested. You need to understand that my life is separate from yours and that I don't care about your opinions anymore.
And I know that it's always someone else's fault and
Never yours
I'd say you're selfish but I know there's got to be a better word
You're on a power trip and I can see no end to it
I guess you thought I'd learn to accept it
But time is out for you, you're running out of luck
So I have a good idea Just shut the fuck up
You constantly blame others for your shortcomings and refuse to take responsibility for your actions. Your behavior is selfish and manipulative. Your attempts to control me have backfired and it's time for you to stop.
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize it's my life
You don't recognize
This is my life and you need to respect that. Your inability to recognize that is the root of our issues.
Contributed by Christopher K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.