Yorn started as a drummer who also played guitar. In 1990, he was drumming for his band in a high school talent contest when someone suggested he sing the Replacements song "Talent Show." That went over so well, a competing band asked him to sing Neil Young’s "Rockin' In the Free World" with them.
He was first recognized when the Farrelly brothers picked "Strange Condition" for their film Me, Myself & Irene.
He has gained increasing popularity following the use of his song "Just Another" on popular WB television show Dawson's Creek.
Another of his songs, Murray was used in the credits of the film Igby Goes Down
The song "Undercover" was used in the first Spiderman movie and appears on the soundtrack.
The song "Lose You" was used in the closing of an episode of House on Fox.
Do They Know It's Christmas
Pete Yorn Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
There's no need to be afraid
At Christmastime, we let in light and we banish shade
And in our world of plenty we can spread a smile of joy
Throw your arms around the world at Christmastime
But say a prayer
Pray for the other ones
At Christmastime it's hard, but when you're having fun
There's a world outside your window
And it's a world of dread and fear
Where the only water flowing is the bitter sting of tears
And the Christmas bells that ring there are the clanging
Chimes of doom
Well tonight thank God it's them instead of you
And there won't be snow in Africa this Christmastime
The greatest gift they'll get this year is life
(Oh) Where nothing ever grows
No rain nor rivers flow
Do they know it's Christmastime at all?
(Here's to you) raise a glass for everyone
(Here's to them) underneath that burning sun
Do they know it's Christmastime at all?
Feed the world
Feed the world
Feed the world
Let them know it's Christmastime again
Feed the world
Let them know it's Christmastime again
Feed the world
Let them know it's Christmastime again
Pete Yorn’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas” is a poignant holiday song that delves into the two sides of Christmas- one filled with light and joy, and the other filled with darkness and hopelessness. The song begins by setting a cheerful tone, with Yorn singing about how Christmastime allows us to bask in the light and spread joy around the world. However, the narrative shifts in the subsequent lines, as Yorn urges us to remember those less fortunate, the people who are going through tough times while the rest of the world is merrymaking. In particular, he highlights the situation in Africa and how the residents there won't' experience the magic of snow this season - only the gift of life.
The second half of the song is a plea to those of us who are blessed to spread a helping hand and show love and kindness to those who are hurting. Yorn implores us to “feed the world” and let those on the other side of the globe know that it is Christmastime, that they are not alone, and that there are people who care about their suffering. In this way, the song encapsulates the yin and yang of the holiday season – the lightness and joy, as well as the shadows and suffering that we cannot ignore.
Overall, "Do They Know It's Christmas" is a song that urges us to think beyond ourselves during this holiday season and remember those who are less fortunate. It's a reminder that Christmas is not only about gift-giving and feasting but also an opportunity to help those around us who need it the most.
Line by Line Meaning
It's Christmastime
The holiday season has arrived
There's no need to be afraid
Don't be scared, it's a time for joy and peace
At Christmastime, we let in light and we banish shade
Christmas brings light and happiness, and drives away darkness and sorrow
And in our world of plenty we can spread a smile of joy
In our fortunate society, we should share our happiness with others
Throw your arms around the world at Christmastime
Embrace the entire world and express your love during Christmas
But say a prayer
Take a moment to pray for those in need
Pray for the other ones
Pray for those who are less fortunate
At Christmastime it's hard, but when you're having fun
Although Christmas is supposed to be fun, it can be difficult for some
There's a world outside your window
There are people in need all around us
And it's a world of dread and fear
Many people are living in fear and anxiety
Where the only water flowing is the bitter sting of tears
There are places where people don't have access to clean water or basic necessities
And the Christmas bells that ring there are the clanging Chimes of doom
In some places, Christmas is a reminder of the difficulties people are facing
Well tonight thank God it's them instead of you
Express gratitude for your own blessings while recognizing the struggles of others
And there won't be snow in Africa this Christmastime
Christmas looks different in different parts of the world
The greatest gift they'll get this year is life
Survival and basic needs are often the most important things for people in need
(Oh) Where nothing ever grows
Some places are barren and difficult to live in
No rain nor rivers flow
The lack of water is a significant problem in some areas
Do they know it's Christmastime at all?
It's possible that people in different parts of the world don't celebrate or recognize Christmas
(Here's to you) raise a glass for everyone
Make a toast to all people, including those in need
(Here's to them) underneath that burning sun
Recognize the struggles of those living in hot, dry climates
Feed the world
We should work together to eliminate hunger and poverty
Let them know it's Christmastime again
Everyone should have a chance to experience the joy of Christmas
Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BOB GELDOF, MIDGE URE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@stanfordkoch1271
Nothing beats the original one
@J1776-
Bono is he only real singer in this
@Lorraine-fj9lj
Nothing comes close to the original
@jarmovanrooij3686
I really like this version.
@alexlabarda2871
It’s like keep the original soundtrack with different singers and updated lyrics, done, why reinvent the wheel?
@cristineespino6566
So trueeeee
@jacquelinedominick5727
Bono is still rocking after 40 yrs..his voice never changes.The original version can never be topped...and never will there be the world's musical talent in one recording studio again
@HARUlevs
Everytime I've heard the Original (80's version) It always makes me cry..
Because when I was young, I remember my parents, my siblings. We are laughing, dancing..
As a child, I am so very happy that time while listening to the radio they're playing that beautiful music.🎶🎵
I really really miss those wonderful years. I really really miss my parents so much. 😭😭😥☹️😔💔
Such a lovely feeling!
❤❤❤
@NickRants
The nostalgia of this is crazy, 2024 anyone?
@Console.Craze.24
Here