Formerly Known As
Kendall Payne Lyrics

The lyrics in Kendall Payne's song "Formerly Known As" are about the struggles of the singer to break free from their past and the expectations of others in order to find their true identity. The song opens with the line "I'll tame this lion of flesh before the night is over," which refers to the singer's desire to control their physical desires and impulses. This line is followed by "My love will not let me rest until my mind is sober," which suggests that the singer's love of self and desire to be free of the chains of their past is what motivates them to make the necessary changes.

The second verse of the song speaks to the internal conflict the singer experiences as they try to define themselves outside of the expectations of others. The line "Reputations from my past chained so tight" is a metaphor for the singer's perceived limitations. The singer then speaks of being "formerly known as nothing and no one," a powerful statement about the struggle to be seen and heard in a world that often overlooks those who do not conform to societal norms. The singer also touches on the idea of being "formerly known as lost," which can be interpreted as a metaphor for feeling disconnected from oneself and the world around them.

The chorus of the song brings things full circle, with the singer declaring their identity as a "new creation" that others may not understand. The final line, "I will not stay silent, I will speak my liberty," is a call to action for the singer and listeners alike. The song encourages us to embrace our true selves and to find the strength to overcome the limitations that others may impose on us.