Talkin' Bout a Revolution
Tracy Chapman Lyrics


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Don't you know
They're talkin' 'bout a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
Don't you know
They're talkin' about a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in the unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know
They're talkin' 'bout a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
Poor people gonna rise up
And get their share
Poor people gonna rise up
And take what's theirs

Don't you know
You better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run
Oh I said you better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run

'Cause finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' 'bout a revolution
Yes, finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh no
Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh
While they're standing in the welfare lines
Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Wasting time in the unemployment lines
Sitting around waiting for a promotion

Don't you know
They're talkin' 'bout a revolution
It sounds like a whisper
And finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' 'bout a revolution
Yes, finally the tables are starting to turn
Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh no




Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh no
Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh no

Overall Meaning

Tracy Chapman's song "Talkin' Bout a Revolution" is a powerful anthem for the oppressed and marginalized, with a chorus that becomes more passionate as it progresses. In the first verse, Chapman paints a picture of poverty, unemployment, and desperation. People are standing in welfare lines, crying for help, and wasting time waiting for a promotion. But despite these desperate circumstances, a revolution is coming - "It sounds like a whisper" - and it will be led by the poor, who will rise up and take what's theirs.


The song's chorus is both an exhortation to action and a warning to those in power. "You better run, run, run" because "finally the tables are starting to turn." Chapman suggests that the oppressed have been patient for far too long, but now they are ready to fight for their rights. The song's overall message is one of hope and empowerment, urging listeners to take control of their lives and demand change.


One interpretation of the song is that it speaks to the need for a systemic change in society, rather than just individual action. The image of people waiting in welfare lines and unemployment lines suggests that the current economic and political systems are failing them. The revolution that Chapman sings about is not just about individual self-improvement, but rather about the need for fundamental change in the way society is organized.


Line by Line Meaning

Don't you know
Are you aware


They're talkin' 'bout a revolution
There is a movement for change


It sounds like a whisper
The idea is spreading quietly


While they're standing in the welfare lines
People are struggling to survive


Crying at the doorsteps of those armies of salvation
Asking for help from charities and churches


Wasting time in the unemployment lines
Job opportunities are scarce


Sitting around waiting for a promotion
Career advancement is unlikely


Poor people gonna rise up
The marginalized will fight back


And get their share
Demanding an equitable distribution of resources


And take what's theirs
Claiming their rightful place in society


You better run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run, run
Those in power should be afraid


Oh I said you better
I warn you


Finally the tables are starting to turn
The power dynamic is shifting


Yes, finally the tables are starting to turn
Change is happening


Talkin' 'bout a revolution, oh no
Describing the movement for change




Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Tracy L Chapman

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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@leokimvideo

A one in a billion voice

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One in a billion voice, indeed! Miss her a lot

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@teegee9330

She doesn't even need a guitar, she could hold that entire stadium in the palm of her hands with her voice alone.

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Unlike the annoying, shiny circus clown, Ms. Cyrus.

@dikeledihlabangane3854

Beautiful voice of a story teller of all times pure gift❤

@Asdf-2

You ain't wrong

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