The most prominent b… Read Full Bio ↴There are at least two bands called The Bears.
The most prominent band called The Bears formed in 1985 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and continue to create new music today. Their sound may be categorized as Power-Pop or Prog Pop, but draws from a diverse pallet of influences, and features the distinctive avant-garde guitar playing of Adrian Belew, the band's most prominent member.
In addition to guitarist, vocalist and producer Belew, The Bears consists of guitarist/vocalist Rob Fetters, drummer/vocalist Chris Arduser, and bassist Bob Nyswonger (without Belew, the three are known as the PsychoDots).
In addition, there is a twee band called Bears (without the "the") from Cleveland, Ohio.
Another band called The Bears were formed in Watford, UK, by former Wire guitarist George Gill and future Julian Cope manager Cally. They released three singles in 1979, including the excellent Insane/Decisions which appeared on the Belfast label Good Vibrations.
Life in a Nutshell
The Bears Lyrics
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Got it all right here, oh, in a house full of love
Nearly everything I thought, everything I thought I might try
Almost all came true, ooh, I'm satisfied
So don't cry (don't cry), don't cry (don't cry)
When I die (don't cry) remember me with a smile in my eye
It's been a long hard drive and maybe my car caught fire
Almost got it, almost have it all
But you know you don't run, oh, unless you're willing to fall
Nearly everything I wanted, everything I ever could have dreamed of
Got it all right here, oh, in a house full of love
So don't cry (don't cry), don't cry (don't cry)
When I die (don't cry) remember me with a smile in my eye
It's been a long hard drive and maybe my car caught fire
But nearly everything, everything came out fine
That's my life in a nutshell, baby, you do what you can do
That's my life in a nutshell, baby, you do what you can do
That's my life in a nutshell, that's my life in a nutshell
Life, life…
The Bears' song "Life in a Nutshell" is a reflection on the experiences of the singer as he contemplates his life. The lyrics celebrate the positive aspects of his existence, acknowledging that he has almost everything he ever wanted or dreamed of. He revels in the love that surrounds him, stating that he has a house full of it, indicating that he is in a stable and happy place in his life. He expresses satisfaction with the way things turned out, indicating that nearly everything he thought or wanted came true. The chorus encourages the listener not to cry when he dies, but rather to remember him with a smile in his eye.
The singer recognizes that obtaining everything he wanted was not easy and that he had to "run," which could have led him to "fall." Nonetheless, he acknowledges that he has nearly reached his goals – almost having it all. He accepts that life cannot be perfect, as he admits that his car may have caught fire along the way, but the outcome remains positive – nearly everything came out fine. He sums up his life in a nutshell, recognizing that everyone does what they can do to get by, but regardless, life is worth celebrating.
Overall, the song's message is one of gratitude for the good things in life, recognizing inevitable setbacks along the way, and cherishing the memory of a life that had a happy ending.
Line by Line Meaning
Nearly everything I wanted, everything I ever could have dreamed of
I have achieved almost everything that I had ever wished or even dared to imagine
Got it all right here, oh, in a house full of love
I am surrounded by love and care, and I have everything I need
Nearly everything I thought, everything I thought I might try
I have attempted almost everything I had in mind or planned to do
Almost all came true, ooh, I'm satisfied
Most of what I attempted ended up being successful, and I am content
So don't cry (don't cry), don't cry (don't cry)
Please don't shed tears
When I die (don't cry) remember me with a smile in my eye
In case I pass away, please remember me fondly
It's been a long hard drive and maybe my car caught fire
My journey has been tough, and I have faced several obstacles
But nearly everything, everything came out fine
Despite the challenges, things have turned out alright
Almost got it, almost have it all
I am close to achieving everything I desire
But you know you don't run, oh, unless you're willing to fall
You cannot succeed without taking risks and accepting defeat
That's my life in a nutshell, baby, you do what you can do
That's a summary of my life, dear- you do your best and carry on
That's my life in a nutshell, that's my life in a nutshell
That is what my life is like, in essence
Life, life...
Just life, that's all it is
Contributed by Mateo J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Matthew Ingman
I'm familiar with the band, but never heard this one. I love it!