That's Pep
Tortoise & Bonnie \"Prince\" Billy Lyrics
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the ability to act on a sudden hunch
nerve to tackle the hardest thing
feet that climb and hands that cling
a heart that never forgets to sing
that's pep (3 times)
sand and grit in a concrete base a friendly smile on an honest face
a spirit that helps when another's down
knows how to scatter the blackest frown
love's it's neighbor love's it's town
that's pep (4 times)
say "i will" for you know you can
look for the best in every man
meet each thundering knockout blow
come back with a smile 'cause you know
you get the best of the whole damn show
that's pep (6 times)
you know thats pep
In "That's Pep!" Tortoise and Bonnie 'Prince' Billy explore the qualities that define pep, and the mindset associated with it. The song highlights that having pep is characterized by having a strong sense of determination, even in the face of adversity. It requires having "vigor vim vitality and punch" which refer to an energetic and resilient approach to life, and being able to act on a sudden hunch, which implies following one's intuition and taking risks. The song also emphasizes the importance of having a kind and supportive spirit, and notes that true pep comes from having a heart that never forgets to sing.
The second verse brings in new elements and expands on the idea of pep. The lyrics suggest that having pep also involves having a solid foundation, represented by the "sand and grit in a concrete base." Additionally, it means being friendly and honest, and having a spirit that can help others when they are down. It involves having an optimistic outlook on life that can help one to "scatter the blackest frown" and love for one's neighbors and community.
Overall, the song encourages listeners to cultivate the qualities of pep by having a positive and resilient attitude towards life, being kind and supportive to others, and always striving to be their best selves.
Line by Line Meaning
vigor vim vitality and punch
The strength, energy, and life force needed to succeed and make an impact.
the ability to act on a sudden hunch
Being able to trust your instincts and make quick decisions based on intuition.
nerve to tackle the hardest thing
Having the courage and determination to take on difficult challenges.
feet that climb and hands that cling
The physical ability to persist and overcome obstacles, by climbing and holding on.
a heart that never forgets to sing
Having a positive and optimistic outlook on life, despite hardships and setbacks.
sand and grit in a concrete base
A solid foundation of hard work and perseverance, even in difficult or unpleasant circumstances.
a friendly smile on an honest face
Being genuine and approachable, with a welcoming and trustworthy demeanor.
a spirit that helps when another's down
Being compassionate and empathetic, willing to lend a hand and lift others up.
knows how to scatter the blackest frown
Having the skill and positivity to turn negative situations into positive outcomes.
love's it's neighbor love's it's town
Being invested in and caring for one's community, treating others with kindness and respect.
say "i will" for you know you can
Having confidence in oneself to succeed and achieve goals.
look for the best in every man
Choosing to see the positive qualities and potential in others, rather than focusing on flaws or mistakes.
meet each thundering knockout blow
Being able to handle and recover from difficult setbacks or failures.
come back with a smile 'cause you know
Maintaining a positive attitude and perseverance, despite challenges and obstacles.
you get the best of the whole damn show
Achieving success and fulfillment by embodying these traits of strength, optimism, and resilience.
that's pep
All of these qualities combined create a powerful and positive force for achieving success and being fulfilled in life.
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: MARK ALLEN MOTHERSBAUGH
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@dezmilcoisas
Quick correction: Song 1 was written by Milton Nascimento* and Ronaldo Bastos*
@ylYolk
Well... I got this guitar, an I learned how to make it talk... 🔥😭
@justohayes
Thanks for uploading. I love this album.
@buscadordesonidos1464
Tortoise haciendo covers <3 Gracias por subirlo, no lo conocia.
@hansmorgenstern5461
Almost forgot how great their cover is of "Cavalry Cross." mmmmm :) feeling mellow
@laurosmesquita
Cravo e Canela is a song by Milton Nascimento and not by Banda Black Rio
@sambobscura
Por favor, né, gente!
@ifolkinrock
I’m curious. Have any Portuguese speakers listened to the first track? Could you actually understand what they were singing?
@laurindofeliciano
Milton Nascimento’s Cravo e Canela ;)
@laurindofeliciano
Thé accent is pretty good