The band's moniker comes from a discarded coat James saw while walking through the remains of his favorite bar the morning after it burned down. The coat had the letters "MMJ" embroided on it. The band has released seven albums so far: "The Tennessee Fire" (1999), "At Dawn" (2001), "It Still Moves" (2003), "Z" (2005), "Evil Urges" (2008), "Circuital" (2011) & "The Waterfall" (2015). The band's breakthrough came when their 2003 single "One Big Holiday" became one of the most played songs on college radio that year. 2008's "I'm Amazed" was also a sizable hit, peaking at #6 on Billboard's Triple A (adult album alternative) Singles chart.
The Circuital songfacts reports that "Circuital" was recorded inside a church’s converted gymnasium in the band's hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Said frontman Jim James: “I hate the phrase ‘going back to our roots’, but for this record we came home and made it in Kentucky. And it just felt a lot like it did when we were first starting out.”
James co-produced the record with Tucker Martine. The pair first worked together when James appeared on Laura Veirs ' album "July Flame" in 2010, which Martine, Veirs’ husband, also produced.
My Morning Jacket guest stared in the American Dad Episode "My Morning Straitjacket" where Stan Smith becomes obsessed with them and decides to become a groupie. The edisode was first aired November 22 2009.
Honest Man
My Morning Jacket Lyrics
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But evil waves at me it's ugly hand
The radar watches me from above, shoutin' down
"I hope you make it on this earth"
Sometimes this world will leave you, Lord
Kickin' and a screamin', wonderin' if
You'll see the next day through
That good luck comes from tryin'
So until I get mine
I'll work me the whole day through
In My Morning Jacket's song "Honest Man," the singer laments his struggle to live honestly in a world full of evil. He tries his best to do what is right and just, but it seems that trouble and hardship are constantly stalking him. The image of the radar watching him from above is particularly powerful, representing a sense of surveillance and control that is both ominous and impersonal. Despite this, the singer remains determined to keep going, believing that good luck will eventually come his way if he keeps trying. He embraces hard work as a way to keep himself grounded and focused, even in difficult times.
The lyrics of "Honest Man" speak to the universal experience of trying to make one's way in the world while staying true to one's values. The conflict between good and evil is a timeless theme that resonates with listeners across generations and cultures. The song's message of perseverance and determination is both inspiring and comforting, offering hope to those who may be struggling to find their way.
Line by Line Meaning
Try to walk this earth an honest man
I strive to live my life with integrity and honor, despite the temptation of wrongdoing.
But evil waves at me it's ugly hand
Temptation and negativity constantly confront me, seeking to lead me astray from my moral compass.
The radar watches me from above, shoutin' down
I am acutely aware that my actions are observed and judged by a higher power, and I feel the weight of that responsibility.
"I hope you make it on this earth"
Despite the challenges and obstacles of life, I hold out hope that I will succeed in living an honest and fulfilling existence.
Sometimes this world will leave you, Lord
The world can be an unforgiving and difficult place, leaving one feeling battered and broken down.
Kickin' and a screamin', wonderin' if
When faced with adversity, one may feel helpless and uncertain about the future.
You'll see the next day through
It can be hard to hold on to hope in difficult times, but it's important to keep pushing forward and believing in better days ahead.
But as for me I do believe
Despite the hardships of life, I maintain a strong faith in the inherent goodness of humanity and the power of perseverance.
That good luck comes from tryin'
By working hard and staying true to oneself, one creates opportunities for positive outcomes in life.
So until I get mine
I will continue to work hard and strive for success in my personal and professional life.
I'll work me the whole day through
I am determined to remain committed to my goals, dedicating all my time and energy to achieving them.
Lyrics © WORDS & MUSIC A DIV OF BIG DEAL MUSIC LLC, BMG Rights Management
Written by: Jim Edward Olliges Jr.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
D Ringo
on Librarian
Fantastic song...simple song with a huge message