The band released their third full length album, Mountains Beaches Cities, via BMG on September 10th, 2013. The project was self-produced by Moon Taxi’s own guitarist Spencer Thomson with the help of keyboardist Wes Bailey and was mixed by Vance Powell (Jack White, The Dead Weather) and mastered by Greg Calbi (Talking Heads, Paul Simon, Fleet Foxes). Extensive touring with their raucous live show helped to land them debut performances on the Late Show With David Letterman and CONAN, plus major music festivals appearances at: Bonnaroo, Shaky Knees, Hangout, FireFly, Lollapalooza, Forecastle and more. Moon Taxi has previously toured with Matisyahu, and White Denim. The band’s songs have been featured in a number of TV shows and films including: ABC’s Nashville, MLB Network’s World Series 2013 show Path to the Championship, an HBO fight promo, plus the independent film Zero to 100.
Say
Moon Taxi Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'm the one who always had a million questions to ask
But I was, I was too afraid to say
I would show that there was always someone better than me
Somewhere bigger, brighter, something better to see
But I was, I was too afraid to say
If you're a little bit scared, be a little bit brave
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
I want you to know I'm listening
If you're a little bit scared be a little bit brave
Don't ever be afraid to
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
Whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa
I'm a judge, I'm a jury with my head on the book
I keep pleading my case, but getting misunderstood
Tell me, tell me what's it gonna take
I've been disconnected every time I'm looking for truth
Like a fighter, survivor gotta stand up and prove
'Cause I know, I know it's the only way
If you're a little bit scared be a little bit brave
Don't ever be afraid to
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
I want you to know I'm listening
If you're a little bit scared be a little bit brave
Don't ever be afraid to
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
Whoa, whoa
Whoa, whoa
Show me, show me what you want me to see
'Cause you are, you are, you are, all that you need
If you're a little bit scared be a little bit brave
Don't ever be afraid to
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
Say what you gotta say
I want you to know I'm listening
(I want you to know I'm listening)
The lyrics of Moon Taxi's song "Say" convey a message of self-expression and overcoming fear. In the first verse, the singer describes themselves as both a teacher and a student, emphasizing their own personal growth and pursuit of knowledge. However, despite having a curiosity to ask questions, they were too afraid to speak up and express themselves. This fear stemmed from a belief that there was always someone better or something greater out there.
The chorus encourages listeners to be brave and not let fear hold them back. It emphasizes the importance of speaking up and saying what needs to be said. The repeated phrase "Say what you gotta say" serves as a rallying cry for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions, and assures them that they will be heard.
The second verse shifts the perspective to that of a judge and a jury, representing the internal struggle of the singer. They feel misunderstood as they try to present their case, seeking a connection and understanding. The line "Tell me, tell me what's it gonna take" reflects their frustration and longing for genuine communication.
The bridge of the song adds a new layer to the message, urging the listener to show the singer what they want them to see. This suggests a desire for transparency and authenticity in relationships, as well as a recognition that each individual already possesses everything they need within themselves.
Overall, the lyrics of "Say" encourage listeners to overcome their fears and express themselves without hesitation. They emphasize the importance of being brave, listening to one another, and embracing the power of words. The song serves as a reminder that each person's voice is valuable and deserving of being heard.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm a teacher, I'm a student, I'm the head of the class
I embody various roles of authority and knowledge.
I'm the one who always had a million questions to ask
I'm curious and eager to learn, constantly seeking answers.
But I was, I was too afraid to say
However, I often hesitated to express myself.
I would show that there was always someone better than me
I believed that there were always individuals more skilled or superior to me.
Somewhere bigger, brighter, something better to see
I thought there were always grander opportunities or experiences out there.
But I was, I was too afraid to say
Yet, my fear held me back from acknowledging this.
If you're a little bit scared, be a little bit brave
When you feel afraid, find the courage to step forward.
Don't ever be afraid to
Never allow fear to hinder you from
Say what you gotta say
Expressing what you truly need to communicate.
I want you to know I'm listening
I'm genuinely attentive and receptive to your words.
I'm a judge, I'm a jury with my head on the book
I rely on knowledge and judgment as I make decisions.
I keep pleading my case, but getting misunderstood
Despite my efforts to explain, I'm often not fully understood.
Tell me, tell me what's it gonna take
Please share what is necessary to overcome these misunderstandings.
I've been disconnected every time I'm looking for truth
Every time I search for the truth, I feel disconnected or distant from it.
Like a fighter, survivor gotta stand up and prove
Similar to a fighter or survivor, I must assert myself and provide evidence or justification.
'Cause I know, I know it's the only way
Because I'm aware that it's the sole approach or solution.
Show me, show me what you want me to see
Reveal or demonstrate what you desire me to perceive or understand.
'Cause you are, you are, you are, all that you need
Because you possess everything necessary within yourself.
Say what you gotta say
Expressing what you truly need to communicate.
I want you to know I'm listening
I'm genuinely attentive and receptive to your words.
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Spencer Thomson, Thomas Putnam, Trevor Terndrup, Tyler Ritter, Wesley Bailey, Andrew Fulk
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@andredeserres711
Literally my favorite band
@themovingforest
The Taxi keeps pumping out positive frequencies. This old fart appreciates their ability to redirect a pessimistic disposition. Blessings!✌
@MoonTaxi
These nearing middle age rockers appreciate this old fart's compliments!!Q Thanks so much!
@landriver1
Glad I'm not the only old fart who is a Moon Taxi fan. 😎
@Jlowrey8
I love this comment so much
@afnanahmedefaj3412
Watching from
Bangladesh 🇧🇩, South Asia.
Great song
@marcustraore545
What a song! 😊
@chefmrfresh4874
Omg. I love this peculiar flow and rhythm. Sounds so unique
@MoonTaxi
Thanks Thornton!
@putiputain1230
I met Trevor almost 2 years ago when we took a mandarin class. I had no idea who he was but he was such a positive guy and very eager to learn something new. Hey Trev if you see this, my offer still stand for homemade chinese food:)