1989
Smith Lyrics


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Nice to see you
Where you've been
I don't know much about incredible things
All that I know is that I don't want to let you go
You're face is so pretty
I wouldn't have it any other way
Even if I found out you were gay
I endorse New York
Because I'm a bit of a bork
Never mind a dork
Hear we go again
Lots of Love
Again and Again
It's supposed to be 1989
Feeling Fine
Back from a time
Of big ass stereos
And wrecks that play tapes
Called tape decks
But 1999 was really the year of feeling fine
1989 feeling fine
What's she done this time
Date off
Shake off
Hate off
Late off
Where do the good times go
When it's gone
Is it really gone
1989
What is the time
1999
A better year
At least I remember it
It's supposed to be 1989
Feeling Fine
Back from a time
Of big ass stereos
And wrecks that play tapes
Called tape decks
But 1999 was really the year of feeling fine
1999
Lots of nice days
Lots of good music
Back from when I was a kid
At least I can remember what I did
The party year
Not upset and in a mess
1999
Need to go back in time




I definitely remember this
That's fine

Overall Meaning

In Smith's song "1989," the lyrics depict a sense of nostalgia and longing for a past era, specifically the years of 1989 and 1999. The opening lines, "Nice to see you, where you've been, I don't know much about incredible things," suggest that the singer is reconnecting with someone after a period of separation or absence. They admit not being knowledgeable about extraordinary events or experiences, but what they do know is that they don't want to let go of this person.


The mention of the person's face being "so pretty" indicates a strong admiration and affection. Smith states that they wouldn't want the person any other way, even if they were gay, implying unconditional acceptance and love. This showcases a willingness to embrace diversity and challenge societal norms.


The reference to endorsing New York and being a "bit of a bork" can be interpreted as a playful and quirky self-identification. The singer characterizes themselves as unconventional or odd, possibly embracing their own quirks and embracing New York's vibrant and diverse culture.


The repetition of "lots of love, again and again" suggests that the singer desires a continuous connection with this person and that love is an essential element in their relationship. The mention of 1989 and feeling fine represents an era where big stereos and tape decks were popular, highlighting a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. However, the mention of 1999 being the "year of feeling fine" further emphasizes the longing for a past year that was filled with good times and great music.


The lyrics continue to express a desire to go back in time, particularly to 1999, suggesting that the singer wants to relive the carefree days and happy memories of their youth. The line, "Not upset and in a mess, 1999, need to go back in time, I definitely remember this, that's fine," reinforces this longing for a specific year and the desire for things to be the way they were during that time.


Overall, the lyrics of Smith's "1989" convey a longing for a past era, a deep admiration for someone regardless of their sexual orientation, and a sense of nostalgia for a time filled with love, good music, and carefree moments.


Line by Line Meaning

Nice to see you
I am glad to see you


Where you've been
I am curious about your whereabouts


I don't know much about incredible things
I have limited knowledge about extraordinary phenomena


All that I know is that I don't want to let you go
I am certain that I want to hold onto you


You're face is so pretty
Your appearance is remarkably beautiful


I wouldn't have it any other way
I prefer things to be exactly as they are


Even if I found out you were gay
Even if I discovered you were homosexual


I endorse New York
I support and advocate for New York


Because I'm a bit of a bork
Because I am somewhat eccentric


Never mind a dork
Disregard someone foolish or socially awkward


Hear we go again
Here we go once more


Lots of Love
A great amount of affection


Again and Again
Repeatedly


It's supposed to be 1989
The intended time frame is 1989


Feeling Fine
Experiencing well-being


Back from a time
Returning from a past period


Of big ass stereos
Of large and powerful stereos


And wrecks that play tapes
And damaged devices that play cassette tapes


Called tape decks
Referred to as tape players


But 1999 was really the year of feeling fine
However, the year 1999 was truly when I felt great


What's she done this time
What has she done now


Date off
End a romantic relationship


Shake off
Dismiss or get rid of something


Hate off
Remove hatred or animosity


Late off
Delayed or behind schedule


Where do the good times go
Where do the enjoyable moments disappear to


When it's gone
Once it has vanished


Is it really gone
Has it truly disappeared


1989
The year 1989


What is the time
What is the current hour


1999
The year 1999


A better year
A superior year


At least I remember it
I can, at least, recall it


1999 was really the year of feeling fine
The year 1999 was truly when I felt great


Lots of nice days
Many pleasant days


Lots of good music
Abundance of enjoyable music


Back from when I was a kid
Returned from my childhood


At least I can remember what I did
At least I can recall my past actions


The party year
The year known for celebrations


Not upset and in a mess
Not distressed or in chaos


1999
The year 1999


Need to go back in time
Desire to travel to the past


I definitely remember this
I unquestionably recall this


That's fine
That is acceptable




Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Ryan Smith

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@anotherpointofview222

I have the utmost empathy for Will.
We all have our lessons to learn, even when we know better. People call Will a hypocrite in light of his words pertaining to this story. "The Boy and The Lock."
https://youtu.be/L7WeJ2LTQag

It shows he knows or knew... "Death and Life are in the power of the tongue."

Not only do you have to watch what you say, but be mindful of who you listen to. Sometimes those demons find a place in you.

It let's me know, the place he is in, is not the place he came from or was purposed to be. I pray someone is ministering Truth to him. Get him back on the right path and off the path he chose. When he owns his decisions. Recognizes and Repents. I have no doubt he'll be free.



All comments from YouTube:

@twixypi3

I have ALWAYS loved Will Smith. It takes a lot to stand up and speak out when systems are designed to sweep you under the rug or hide your recognition

@anotherpointofview222

Agree Brittane. It takes courage and sacrifice to stand up to the giants of Industry. But they are not the true enemy. Harder to face, stand up to, and slay, are the demons within. Sometimes you have to be brought down to face the enemy of your own state.

@CaapriceTube1

Thank You Will and Jeff!! Every rapper from jay to eminem and today need to thank these guys!! 🙌🏾 They should be honoured at the Grammys in the future for sure. Hopefully sooner than later.

@anotherpointofview222

Should give honor to the One who bestows the gifts and talents we display. Instead of seeking the honors (Grammys and Oscars) of men. Keep Livin. We will see what was truly meant to be.

@CaapriceTube1

@@anotherpointofview222 Always. GOD first!

@Javifrom303

“It was a slap in the face” said will in 89 and Chris Rock in 2022

@Cw311z

Chris Rockhead was an unknown dope back then while Will was & still is hip hop royalty hope.

@nellyluscious

Back when Artists made their voices heard! Not just money puppets!!

@aleksisuuronen9094

Artists still boycott Grammy's all the time for one reason or another. Like this years Grammy's many artist have already refused to play and might boycott it altogether.

I swear you people just pull this: "It used to be better" shit out of your ass in any situation possible even if it doesn't make any sense.

@st4rdustlumin4ls96

Tyler the creator talked about how the urban category is disrespectful after winning a grammy in it. In 2020. Just because you dont pay attention doesnt mean everyone is a money puppet.

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