Downtown
The Proper Ornaments Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

When you're alone and life is making you lonely
when you got worries, all the noise and the hurry
just listen to the music of the traffic in the city
linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty
listen to the rythm of a gentle bossanova 
you'll be dancing too with them before the night is over

downtown

don't hang around and let your problems surround you
maybe you know some little place to go to
and you might find somebody kind enough to understand you
someone who is just like you and needs a gentle hand to
listen to the music of the traffic in the city
linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty

downtown

where everybody needs you

downtown





you just cant wait to get to

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of The Proper Ornaments's song "Downtown" convey a sense of escapism and finding solace in the midst of a bustling city environment. The singer addresses the feeling of loneliness and worry that can often accompany being alone in a busy urban setting. The suggestion is to tune into the music of the city, represented by the sounds of traffic and the visual beauty of neon signs, as a way to momentarily escape from one's troubles. The reference to a gentle bossanova rhythm evokes a soothing and carefree atmosphere, inviting the listener to join in the dancing.


The lyrics further encourage the listener to not allow their problems to overwhelm them but to seek out a refuge, perhaps a small, unknown place where they might find understanding and connection with someone who shares their struggles. The idea of finding someone who is just like you and needs a helping hand emphasizes the importance of human connection and empathy in facing life's challenges. The repetition of listening to the music of the city and admiring the neon signs highlights the theme of finding beauty and comfort in unexpected places.


The chorus of the song emphasizes the concept of "downtown" as a gathering place where everybody needs each other. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking out community and support in times of need, highlighting the shared humanity and interconnectedness of city life. The repeated refrain of "downtown" creates a sense of anticipation and eagerness, suggesting a desire to escape to this vibrant and welcoming environment where one is valued and needed.


Overall, the lyrics of "Downtown" by The Proper Ornaments paint a picture of seeking refuge and connection in the midst of urban chaos. The song encourages the listener to embrace the music and energy of the city, to seek out understanding and companionship, and to find comfort in the shared experiences of others. It conveys a message of hope and unity in navigating the challenges of loneliness and finding a sense of belonging in a bustling metropolis.


Line by Line Meaning

When you're alone and life is making you lonely
When you're feeling isolated and life seems overwhelming


when you got worries, all the noise and the hurry
when you have anxieties and the chaos of daily life


just listen to the music of the traffic in the city
simply tune into the sounds of urban life


linger on the sidewalk where the neon signs are pretty
pause and appreciate the beauty of city lights


listen to the rythm of a gentle bossanova
pay attention to the soothing beat of bossanova music


you'll be dancing too with them before the night is over
you'll find yourself dancing along with the music before the night ends


don't hang around and let your problems surround you
don't stay in one place and let your issues consume you


maybe you know some little place to go to
perhaps you're aware of a small retreat to visit


and you might find somebody kind enough to understand you
where you might discover someone compassionate enough to empathize with you


someone who is just like you and needs a gentle hand to
someone who is in a similar situation and requires support


where everybody needs you
a place where everyone values your presence


you just cant wait to get to
you're eager to arrive at this destination




Lyrics © Budde Music Publishing GmbH
Written by: JAMES HOARE, MAX CLAPS, ROBERT MICHAEL JAMES SYME

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
To comment on or correct specific content, highlight it

Genre not found
Artist not found
Album not found
Song not found
Comments from YouTube:

@Koshirozation

oh!! what a brilliant idea for a cover! bravo bravo and bravo!

my mum loved this song and loved it even more back in late 2000s when lost series made it popular all over again. love this so much! post punk downtown!

@squeeboooooooooooooooooooooooo

awesome stuff

@1dominickjohn

Terrific low-fi take on this classic 60s bit of pop!

More Versions