Change Your Ways
Rockwell Lyrics


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You say you want all the best life has to give
Well, have you considered the price of the life you want to live
Takes more than wishing to make a dream come true
Open your eyes and the answers are there for you

You′ve got to change your ways
You've got to change your ways
You say the system′s to blame but if I were you
I'd learn the rules of the game and play it too
Sooner or later, you have to realize
You've got to take that first step, no more alibis

You′ve got to change your ways
You′ve got to change your ways

If you've got a chip on your shoulder that holds you down
How long will you wait till you finally come around?
The message is clear, it′s all up to you to try
Time is so precious, don't let the world pass you by

You′ve got to change your ways
You've got to change your ways

Change your ways
Change your ways
(Just change your ways)
Change your ways
(You got to change your ways)
Change your ways
(Change your ways)
Change your ways
(Just change your ways)
Change your ways




(Change your ways)
Change your ways

Overall Meaning

The song "Change Your Ways" by Rockwell urges listeners to take responsibility for their own lives and make the necessary changes to achieve their desired success and happiness. The lyrics emphasize the need to move beyond mere wishes and dreams and take action.


The first verse highlights the importance of considering the price of the life one wants to live. It suggests that simply wishing for a better life is not enough; one must open their eyes to see the opportunities and solutions that surround them. By acknowledging that change requires effort and action, the lyrics encourage listeners to take control of their own destinies.


The chorus strongly emphasizes the need to change one's ways. It serves as a reminder that without any change in behavior or mentality, it is unrealistic to expect different results. By repeating this message, the lyrics emphasize the necessity for personal growth and adaptation to achieve the desired goals.


The second verse challenges the notion of blaming external factors, such as the system, for lack of success. Instead, the lyrics urge individuals to learn and understand the rules of the game and actively participate in it. This highlights the importance of self-education and personal empowerment to navigate and overcome obstacles.


The bridge of the song addresses the burden of holding onto grudges or negative emotions (represented by the metaphorical "chip on your shoulder") and how it hinders personal progress. It encourages listeners to let go of these burdens and take action, reminding them that time is limited and precious. The lyrics convey the message that one's future is in their own hands, urging them not to let life pass them by without taking initiative.


In summary, "Change Your Ways" encourages listeners to take control of their own lives, recognize the importance of personal responsibility, and make the necessary changes to achieve their desired goals. It emphasizes the need for self-reflection, adaptation, and proactive decision-making to overcome obstacles and embrace new opportunities in life.


Line by Line Meaning

You say you want all the best life has to give
You express a desire for the finest things in life


Well, have you considered the price of the life you want to live
Have you thought about the sacrifices and costs associated with the life you desire?


Takes more than wishing to make a dream come true
Mere hoping is insufficient to make your dreams a reality


Open your eyes and the answers are there for you
If you keenly observe, you will find the solutions you seek


You′ve got to change your ways
It is necessary for you to alter your behavior or approach


You say the system′s to blame but if I were you
You attribute fault to the system, but if I were in your position


I'd learn the rules of the game and play it too
I would familiarize myself with the regulations and actively participate as well


Sooner or later, you have to realize
Eventually, it will dawn upon you


You've got to take that first step, no more alibis
You must initiate action and abandon any excuses


If you've got a chip on your shoulder that holds you down
If you have a grudge or burden that hinders your progress


How long will you wait till you finally come around?
How much time will you waste before you eventually understand?


The message is clear, it′s all up to you to try
The communication is obvious, and it is solely your responsibility to make an effort


Time is so precious, don't let the world pass you by
Time is incredibly valuable, so don't allow life to progress without taking action


Change your ways
Modify your behavior


Change your ways
Alter your approach


(Just change your ways)
(Simply adjust your behavior)


Change your ways
Revise your methods


(You got to change your ways)
(You must modify your behavior)


Change your ways
Transform your actions


(Change your ways)
(Make a shift in your approach)


Change your ways
Adapt your behavior


(Just change your ways)
(Simply alter your approach)


Change your ways
Revamp your methods


(Change your ways)
(Make a change in your behavior)


Change your ways
Modify your actions




Writer(s): Curtis A. Nolen, Rockwell, Norman G. Dozier

Contributed by Asher G. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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