When the Lights Go Out
Malachite Lyrics

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When the lights go out
And all you can hear is a soft, sweet sound...
When all that's left is fear and doubt
That's where the magic is found

First the darkness circles 'round
Then the inspiration sprouts
When the lights go out

'Cause in the beauty of the night
Cellphones turn into spotlights!
When the lights go out...

When the lights go out
And a stillness fills the crowd
There's only you playing your art
'Cause there's music flowing through your heart

And I don't know what is true
But the beat stays steady too
When the lights go out...

'Cause in the sight of the dark sky
No more rules apply!
When the lights go out...

So people whisper to themselves
As the guitar music starts,

I'll sing the part
When the lights go out.

Overall Meaning

In "When the Lights Go Out" by Malachite, the lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and the transformative power of darkness. The song suggests that when external distractions fade away, true magic can be found. As the lights go out, leaving only a soft, sweet sound, fear and doubt may arise, but they also serve as the catalyst for something extraordinary.

The first paragraph paints a picture of the darkness enveloping everything, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. It describes how in this darkness, inspiration takes root, symbolizing the idea that sometimes it is in our darkest moments that we find the motivation and creativity to push forward.

The second paragraph introduces the concept of beauty in the night. It highlights the transformation of cellphones into spotlights, emphasizing how even in the absence of conventional illumination, the audience can still shine a light on what is important. This suggests that when faced with darkness, we have the power to create our own illumination and find our true potential.

As the lights go out once again in the third paragraph, a stillness fills the crowd. The focus shifts to the performer who becomes the sole center of attention, playing their art. The lyrics suggest that in moments of darkness, one can tap into a deeper connection to their music, allowing it to flow through their heart. The steadiness of the beat symbolizes resilience and the ability to find strength even in difficult times.

The final paragraph introduces a sense of introspection. People begin to whisper to themselves as the guitar music starts, perhaps contemplating their own journey and the role they play when faced with darkness. The lyrics express a desire to be a part of the magic that unfolds when the lights go out, promising to sing their own part and contribute to the transformative experience. This reinforces the idea that everyone has a role to play in embracing the unknown and finding inspiration in the darkest of moments.

Line by Line Meaning

When the lights go out
In the absence of illumination

And all you can hear is a soft, sweet sound...
And the only audible sensation is a gentle and pleasing noise...

When all that's left is fear and doubt
When all that remains is a feeling of apprehension and uncertainty

That's where the magic is found
That is the precise moment when enchantment is discovered

First the darkness circles 'round
Initially, obscurity and obscurity becomes widespread

Then the inspiration sprouts
Subsequently, inspiration begins to emerge

When the lights go out
In the absence of illumination

'Cause in the beauty of the night
Because in the splendor of the nighttime

Cellphones turn into spotlights!
Mobile devices are transformed into sources of focused light!

When the lights go out...
In the absence of illumination...

When the lights go out
In the absence of illumination