Revolution
John Lennon Lyrics


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You say you want a revolution
Well, you know
We all want to change the world
You tell me that it's evolution
Well, you know
We all want to change the world
But when you talk about destruction
Don't you know that you can count me out?

Don't you know it's gonna be
Alright?
Alright?
Alright?

You say you've got a real solution
Well, you know
We'd all love to see the plan
You ask me for a contribution
Well, you know
We are doing what we can
But if you want money for people with minds that hate
All I can tell is, brother, you'll have to wait

Don't you know it's gonna be
Alright?
Alright?
Alright?

You say you'll change the constitution
Well, you know
We all want to change your head
You tell me it's the institution
Well, you know
You'd better free your mind instead
But if you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao
You ain't gonna make it with anyone anyhow





Don't you know it's gonna be
Alright? [Repeat: x6]

Overall Meaning

In John Lennon's "Revolution," Lennon speaks out against the idea of violent revolution and destruction in the quest for change. Lennon addresses those who believe that change is necessary and claims that he also wants change, but not at the cost of violence and destruction. He references the idea that change can come through evolution, rather than destruction, as opposed to what some revolutionaries believe. He also comments on the suggestions of a real solution and contribution, saying that they're doing what they can but have limits. Lennon ends up lamenting people who go too far with their involvement in revolution by carrying pictures of Chairman Mao, representing blind following of a particular cause or individual. The song ends with Lennon declaring that everything will be alright, reiterating the theme of non-violence, and a peaceful view of revolution as a gradual process.


Line by Line Meaning

You say you want a revolution
You express a desire for a revolution.


Well, you know
You understand that this is a common sentiment shared by many people.


We all want to change the world
As human beings, we all desire to make changes in the world.


You tell me that it's evolution
You believe that this revolution will come about through gradual, natural change.


Well, you know
Again, you are aware that many people feel this way.


We all want to change the world
As previously stated, we all desire to make changes in the world.


But when you talk about destruction
However, if your revolution involves destruction and violence...


Don't you know that you can count me out?
... please be aware that I do not support or condone such methods.


Don't you know it's gonna be Alright? Alright? Alright?
Despite our differences in opinion, everything will ultimately be okay. It's important to remain optimistic.


You say you've got a real solution
You claim to have a concrete solution to the problems we face.


Well, you know
Once again, you understand that many people are seeking solutions.


We'd all love to see the plan
We would all appreciate seeing a detailed, viable plan for change.


You ask me for a contribution
You request that I contribute to your cause.


Well, you know
Again, you understand that we are all doing what we can to help.


We are doing what we can
As previously stated, we are all making efforts towards change in our own ways.


But if you want money for people with minds that hate
However, if your ultimate goal is to benefit those who possess hateful beliefs...


All I can tell is, brother, you'll have to wait
... unfortunately, I cannot support such a plan and will have to opt out.


You say you'll change the constitution
You express a desire to amend or completely overhaul the governing documents of our society.


Well, you know
Once again, you are aware that many people seek systemic change.


We all want to change your head
However, rather than changing the constitution, perhaps we should focus on changing individual attitudes and perspectives.


You tell me it's the institution
You argue that the root of the problem is the institutions and systems within our society.


Well, you know
As before, you understand that this is a commonly held belief.


You'd better free your mind instead
However, it would be more productive to encourage individuals to adopt a more open-minded and accepting outlook.


But if you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao
If the way you choose to spread your message is by using imagery or propaganda of an authoritarian figure...


You ain't gonna make it with anyone anyhow
... it is highly unlikely that your ideas will be well-received or embraced.


Don't you know it's gonna be Alright?
Once again, despite our differences and obstacles, everything will eventually work out for the best.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Royalty Network
Written by: John Lennon, Paul McCartney

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@leokimvideo

George found the fuzz box, Metal was made

@AmericanGothic1313

Link Wray fuzzed before.

@andrewross1275

Tony Iommi turned fuzz to metal

@terrybartak7811

+leokimvideo Johns Epiphone Casino using the tailpiece Gibson p90 pickup and a 22 watt Fender Deluxe amplifier dimed. No fuzz box.

@whotendsthefire7234

+Captain Andrew no Hendrix made the sound.evrybody else just followed....

@NickS-lz5vk

+Robert Dominguez In this song, yes... George did use the fuzz box back in 65/66 for the song Think for yourself.

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@jaysutcliff

0:00 watching by myself
1:53 parents walk in

@cleanfrog3702

Floridarulz best comment I’ve ever seen on a Beatles vid lmao

@mairead1174

Omg 😂😂

@mathara.s841

Come Together isolated vocal is way more than that

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