13.take the picture off
RJD2 Lyrics


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Brain damage
Oh shit
Trouble

Sellin' a lot of records
But he'd sell a lot more, man
If he'd take his picture off the cover.




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to RJD2's Take The Picture Off are a commentary on the paradox of fame and artistic integrity. The words "brain damage" and "trouble" convey the idea that fame and success can come at a cost to one's wellbeing. The artist is depicted as selling "a lot of records", which is a sign of commercial success. However, the caveat is that he could "sell a lot more" without his picture on the cover. In other words, his image is being used to sell the record more than his music, which suggests a lack of artistic integrity. This is a common paradox in the music industry, where commercial success often comes at the cost of creative freedom.


The chorus of the song repeats the refrain "Take the picture off", which is a call to action to the artist to break away from the commercial constraints placed on him by the record label. The artist is encouraged to prioritize his artistic vision over his desire for commercial success. The song seems to challenge the listener to consider whether it's worth sacrificing your artistic integrity for fame and fortune.


Line by Line Meaning

Brain damage
The artist is experiencing mental exhaustion or fatigue due to the music industry.


Oh shit
An expression of surprise or panic in response to the challenges faced by the artist.


Trouble
The artist is facing difficulties and complications while pursuing fame and success in the music industry.


Sellin' a lot of records
The artist's music is popular and is selling well.


But he'd sell a lot more, man
Despite the artist's current success, there is potential for even greater profits and fame.


If he'd take his picture off the cover.
The artist's appearance or image is affecting their marketability and potential success. Removing their picture from album covers could improve sales and popularity.




Lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: RAMBLE JOHN KROHN

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Spoon

That intro doesn't get annoying at all

H.R. Puffinstuff

Ur whack af boiiii

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