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.
Miss Alien
Pete Yorn Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
And we are so far away
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's likeRestless night
Doing alright
Tears are in your eyes
All the time
Rest tonight
Rest today
Come on over when you're ready
I can't hold anyone at all
And you feel so far away
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Tell me what it's like
Restless night
Doing alright
Tears are in your eyes
All the time
Dance tonight
Dance all day
Come on over when you're ready
Come on over when you're ready
Come on over when you're ready
Come on over when you're ready
Come on over when you're ready(Tell me what it's like)
Come on over when you're ready
(Tell me what it's like)
Come on over when you're ready
(Tell me what it's like)
In "Miss Alien," Pete Yorn conveys a sense of isolation and longing through repetitive phrases that establish a deep emotional disconnect while simultaneously inviting connection. The opening lines, "I don't know anyone at all / And we are so far away," set the stage for feelings of loneliness and isolation. The singer seems to express bewilderment at the vast emotional and physical distances that exist between him and another person, possibly a romantic interest or confidante. This sense of estrangement reflects a common human experience: the challenge of forming deep connections in a world that often feels disjointed. The repetition of the line "Tell me what it's like" reinforces the urgency of this desire for understanding and communication, suggesting that the singer is not just curious but is also yearning for insight into the other person's feelings and experiences.
The theme of restlessness emerges prominently in the chorus with phrases like "Restless night / Doing alright" juxtaposed against the always-present "Tears are in your eyes." This contradiction highlights the complexity of emotional states—the singer may be trying to assure themselves that they are managing well, yet the tears signify ongoing pain or sorrow. The starkness of this imagery not only pairs the mundaneness of life with emotional upheaval but also reflects a fragile state of being. It also shows that, despite moments of okayness, the underlying distress reminds the listener that emotional healing is often a tumultuous journey. The lyrics invite the listener to delve deeper into these feelings, suggesting that even when things appear to be stable or 'alright,' an undercurrent of sadness persists, reinforcing the notion that one can be physically present yet emotionally distant.
The repeated invitation to "come on over when you're ready" resonates throughout the song as the singer extends a gentle offer for connection. This line is both an expression of patience and a recognition that emotional readiness is crucial for any meaningful relationship. It underscores the theme that relationships require timing and consent, a mutual understanding of when both parties feel equipped to engage with one another emotionally. This repetition signifies hope and the potential for reconnection, reminding the listener that despite feelings of distance, there is an open door for communication and intimacy. The singer is inviting the other person to share their experiences, implying trust and the importance of taking time to navigate one’s emotions. It is a poignant reflection of a wish for reconciliation that respects the space needed in times of distress.
Yorn concludes the song with an overarching sense of yearning, particularly through the refrain of "Tell me what it's like." This final reiteration echoes a plea for vulnerability both from the other person and from the singer themselves. It encapsulates the emotional core of the song—an exploration of individuality within the framework of relationships. Even with the clear recognition of separateness (“And you feel so far away”), there is still hope for understanding and connection. The call to "dance" as suggested in the verses serves as a metaphorical bridge to joy and connection through shared experiences, encouraging a shift from sadness to engagement. Ultimately, "Miss Alien" captures the intricacies of yearning for connection in a world filled with separateness and emotional turmoil, challenging the listener to consider their own capacity for connection amidst the chaos of modern life.
Line by Line Meaning
I don't know anyone at all
I feel completely isolated and disconnected from everyone around me.
And we are so far away
There is a significant emotional or physical distance between us.
Tell me what it's like
Share your experiences and feelings with me so I can understand your perspective.
Tell me what it's like
Reiterate your insights; I crave to learn more about your situation.
Tell me what it's like
Please express what you're going through; I need to hear your story.
Tell me what it's like
I'm urging you to communicate your feelings so I can grasp your reality.
Tell me what it's like
Continue to share with me; understanding you is important to me.
Tell me what it's like
I am still seeking clarity on your emotions and circumstances.
Restless night
I am unable to find peace or sleep due to my worries or inner turmoil.
Doing alright
Despite my struggles, I am managing to cope and carry on.
Tears are in your eyes
You are visibly upset and holding back emotions that are close to spilling over.
All the time
Your sadness seems to persist and overshadow your daily life.
Rest tonight
Take a break and allow yourself some time to recuperate and heal.
Rest today
Give yourself permission to relax and recharge; don’t push yourself too hard.
Come on over when you're ready
I am inviting you to join me whenever you feel comfortable and prepared to do so.
I can't hold anyone at all
I feel incapable of forming connections with others at this moment.
And you feel so far away
Your emotional state creates a barrier that makes it feel difficult to reach you.
Tell me what it's like
I am asking you again to share your insights; your perspective is valuable to me.
Tell me what it's like
I continue to express my desire for you to open up to me about your feelings.
Tell me what it's like
Once more, I request that you articulate your experiences and thoughts.
Tell me what it's like
I am eager for you to convey what is happening in your life; it matters to me.
Tell me what it's like
Please do not hesitate to share; your truth is important.
Tell me what it's like
I urge you, yet again, to reveal your feelings so I can support you.
Restless night
I am still experiencing sleeplessness due to anxiety and unresolved thoughts.
Doing alright
Despite the chaos, I am finding a way to maintain some semblance of normalcy.
Tears are in your eyes
Your pain is evident; it’s a reminder of how deeply you're affected.
All the time
This sadness seems to linger, a constant presence in your life.
Dance tonight
Let’s embrace joy and freedom; celebrate life in the midst of sorrow.
Dance all day
We should find moments of happiness and express ourselves freely throughout the day.
Come on over when you're ready
I'm still here for you; join me when you feel prepared to share your being.
Come on over when you're ready
I'm re-iterating my support; approach me whenever the time is right for you.
Come on over when you're ready
I am patient; I want to connect with you when the moment feels right for you.
Come on over when you're ready
You have my invitation; I will be here when you're willing to engage.
Come on over when you're ready
I am sincerely hoping you'll join me when you feel equipped to share your heart.
(Tell me what it's like)
This recurring plea highlights my eagerness to understand your emotional state.
Come on over when you're ready
Again, I offer my invitation; my support is always here for you when you need it.
(Tell me what it's like)
I reiterate my desire for you to open up; I want to hear your experiences.
Come on over when you're ready
I am extending my hand, welcoming you whenever you feel settled enough to come forward.
(Tell me what it's like)
My longing to understand your feelings persists; please let me in on your story.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, O/B/O DistroKid, SC PUBLISHING DBA SECRETLY CANADIAN PUB., Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: JACKSON PHILLIPS, PETER J. YORN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@genntube.00
Why is this so good?! I was just listening to my fave Pete Yorn songs earlier “On Your Side” “Life on a Chain” and “Just Another” so consistently good! ❤
@JoeJoeJoe25
Hey Pete, i just watch you in The Killers Of The Flower Moon. You're amazing! I didn't even recognize you at first. Congratulations man
@memak3335
you are very talented musician...just another girl is one of the greatest music of all time
@cellistry
Hurt by previous relationships but wanting it again
@LuciensMusic
What a pleasant surprise today😊
@-_ASMODEUS-
I liked the video, excellent work
@sowhat8639
amazing song and great video. what is the film footage from??
@laurentgourin3318
I love your song 💗🎶🎵🎼🎹🎸👍
@RealTriaz
LOVE LOVE LOVE PETE YORN!!!!!
@iLikeHamburgersAndMusic
I love Pete