In 2006, Arthur's song "In the Sun" was covered by Michael Stipe (of R.E.M.) and Coldplay singer Chris Martin. Released for a Hurricane Katrina Relief program, the EP includes six versions of the cover, one of which has Arthur himself singing with Stipe.
Arthur established his own record label, Lonely Astronaut Records, in 2006, and released two studio albums, Let's Just Be (2007) and Temporary People (2008) with backing band The Lonely Astronauts. Arthur subsequently returned to performing and recording as a solo artist, releasing The Graduation Ceremony in 2011 and the double album, Redemption City in 2012.
Arthur is also an acclaimed painter and designer. His artwork has graced the sleeves of his entire discography; the sleeve design for his 1999 album entitled Vacancy was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Recording Package.
In Ohio
Joseph Arthur Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You will die alone
I'm gonna wait up
I'm gonna wait up
I'm gonna wait up
For you
The lyrics of Joseph Arthur's song in Ohio showcase the futility of life and a sense of despair through simple and direct lines that leave a profound impact on the listener. The song's first two lines set the tone as they depict the cycle of life where everyone is born in a place and will eventually die alone. It's a blunt reminder of the transient nature of life and how we all are just fragments of this universe. Despite how we try to form connections and relationships, we are ultimately left to face our own mortality.
The repetition of "I'm gonna wait up for you" can be interpreted in a couple of ways. The first one is that it could be a way to alleviate the feeling of loneliness and the fear of death. The repetition creates a sense of comfort and familiarity that helps us cope with the inevitability of our fate. On the other hand, it could also be seen as a futile attempt to hold on to something that's bound to slip away. No matter how much we cling to life or wait for someone, we'll eventually have to let go and face our destiny.
Overall, the lyrics of In Ohio highlight the common fear and anxiety that most people have about life and death. It's a sobering realization that we're all just a small part of the vast universe and that our existence is fleeting.
Line by Line Meaning
In Ohio, you were born
The place of your origin is Ohio
You will die alone
Your life might end without anyone's companionship.
I'm gonna wait up
I'll be up and available for you.
I'm gonna wait up
I promise to stay awake when you are with me.
I'm gonna wait up
I'm willing to wait for you no matter how long it takes.
For you
For you, my love and concern will never fade away.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: JOSEPH LYBURN ARTHUR
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind