In 1997, at the age of 15, he released his major-label debut, 'Lie to Me'. Though it picked up mixed critical reviews, the album served as a commercial breakthrough, with single "Lie to Me" particularly receiving much airplay and earning the #12 slot on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart. That blues rock track continues to be beloved by Lang's fan-base.
Lang followed with 'Wander This World', released on October 20, 1998. Broadening his sound somewhat with influences from classic soul and modern rock, the release experienced widespread success. His singles, "Wander This World" and "Still Rainin'", did particularly well, the latter tune reaching the #8 slot on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart.
Several releases and constant touring later, Lang's latest work is 'Fight For My Soul', released on September 2, 2013. The album has received critical acclaim from publications such has Allmusic, with the reviewers remarking that Lang "dives headfirst into classic soul and R&B, its elastic, funky grooves allowing the guitarist plenty of space to solo". It also hit the #20 slot on Billboard's 'Top Rock Albums' chart, selling extremely well.
Part of his success has been due to a voice that sounds somewhat like that of a 40-year-old blues veteran, containing what fans have seen as a harshness tempered by a fine falsetto that has taken prominence in his newest albums. Another part of his success is his scorching, electrifying guitar solos, which display a prodigious natural talent honed by years of practice and playing. Whatever the secret to his success, the youngster has quickly become a fixture in the blues world, drawing crowds wherever he goes.
Lang has drawn deeply from the wellspring of influences from the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Albert King, Luther Allison, and Albert Collins. Many blues artists have also been encouraged to pick up the guitar from his example. As he becomes more confident in his role as a musical veteran instead of a boy wonder, one can see the possibilities he has yet to share with his fans.
There
Jonny Lang Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Things just can't stay the same
If I got any worse off
I'd have myself to blame
I've played the blues so long now
There ain't nothin' left for me to do
I just can't give it up
Well now I've been to Kentucky, Chicago too
All over St. Louis, ain't nothin left to do baby
But I'll play the blues for you, yes I will
Well I've been down to Texas
To the international revenue
I ain't got no money now, honey now
Ain't nothin' left to do
Well I'll play the blues for you
The lyrics of Jonny Lang's song There's Gotta Be A Change convey a sense of resignation in the face of difficult circumstances. Lang recognizes that things cannot continue as they are and that should his situation worsen, he would only have himself to blame. The repetition of the line "I've played the blues so long now" indicates a weariness with the genre and perhaps a desire to move on. However, he acknowledges that he cannot give up the blues altogether as it has become an integral part of his identity.
Lang references various cities in the United States, highlighting his extensive travels as a musician. He has played in Kentucky, Chicago, St. Louis, and Texas. Despite his extensive travels, there appears to be a sense of disillusionment as he suggests that there is nothing left for him to do. The final line, "Well I'll play the blues for you" is an affirmation of his commitment to the music, even in the face of adversity.
Overall, the lyrics suggest a tension between resignation and perseverance. While Lang acknowledges his difficult circumstances, he seems determined to carry on and continue to play the blues.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh, there's got to be a change
The current state of things is unsustainable and a shift is necessary.
Things just can't stay the same
Status quo is not an option and change is imperative.
If I got any worse off
My situation has deteriorated to its lowest point.
I'd have myself to blame
I'm accountable for whatever negative outcomes that may arise as a result of my actions, or inaction in this case.
I've played the blues so long now
I've been stuck in a rut for an extended period of time.
There ain't nothin' left for me to do
I've exhausted all my options and I'm left with no other choice.
I just can't give it up
I'm unable to move on from this situation even though it's not serving me any good.
If I do my life would be through
Giving up would mean the death of my passion and purpose.
Well now I've been to Kentucky, Chicago too
I've explored different places, tried different things but nothing satisfies me like blues music does.
All over St. Louis, ain't nothin left to do baby
Even in the midst of a vibrant city with multiple opportunities, I still feel trapped.
But I'll play the blues for you, yes I will
Despite everything, I'm still willing to share my music and passion with those who appreciate it.
Well I've been down to Texas
I've explored a new location in the hopes of financial gain.
To the international revenue
I've tried making money overseas.
I ain't got no money now, honey now
All my financial efforts have been futile, and I'm currently broke.
Ain't nothin' left to do
I'm out of options.
Well I'll play the blues for you
I may be out of options, but I'm still able to play the music I love.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: GWENDOLYN COLLINS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@ernestkiyoshk9255
Here listening to the great Johnny Lang in 2024
@VANP79
I remenber when i bought this cd back +/- 2001 ... no words
@aprilnicole0411
Blaring it from my car today ❤
@ONTHEEDGEFRED
Me
@NeeCeeRidinFree
As good as it was then!! Maybe even better...understanding. :)
@maggieb4736
@@NeeCeeRidinFree, yup. Bought this when it first came out---still as good today. Fan-freaking-tastic!
@valerierechel8097
Heard this song on the radio 23 years ago. Told my husband, get that cd! Expecting an old black guy on the cover 😂. A 17 year old white kid from ND!!! was killing the blues. Life lesson.... try not to pre judge. Still love the song.
@emmettnichols4612
How cool is the lyrics,rhythm and message? I'm 81 still mobile and kicking it.!!!
@JaneHobson-on3jj
Our guitar player / vocalist turned me on to him... we did this one, and "Hit the Ground Runnin' " Fun, Fun, Fun !!
@1879dessa
Even better... He was 15...