They began as studio engineers at Mickie Most's RAK recording studio in London, engineering music for British groups like the Pet Shop Boys, Young Disciples, and Robert Plant. In 1997 they were asked by a college friend, Nigel Godrich (who was busy producing 'OK Computer'), to remix Radiohead's "Climbing Up the Walls". They called the mix "the Zero 7 Mix" which stuck.
Passing By
Zero 7 Lyrics
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Confusion settling in
I don't think I'll be staying
Around here, anymore
There's no question that I love you
But I'm living in my own time
And here I am debating
Who am I
To make a judgment of
Your life
I'm only
Passing by
Passing by
All the promises I gave you
Helped me to survive
And all the times I wished you'd save me
You were the love of my life
Who am I
To make a judgment of
Your life
I'm only
Passing by
Passing by
Who am I
To make a judgment of
Your life
I'm only
Passing by
Passing by
Who am I
To make a judgment of
Your life
I'm only
Passing by
Passing by
I'm only passing by
The lyrics to Zero 7's song Passing By express a sense of confusion and uncertainty about the future of a relationship. The singer seems torn between their love for the other person and their own need for space and independence. They are questioning whether they should stay in the relationship or move on while also acknowledging the impact that the other person has had on their life. The refrain "Who am I to make a judgement of your life, I'm only passing by" highlights the transitory nature of relationships and the fact that we are not always able to fully understand or control them.
The song's lyrics are not only about relationships, but they can also be interpreted more broadly as a reflection on the fleeting nature of life itself. The idea that we are all "only passing by" suggests an awareness of the impermanence of things, and a sense of humility in the face of this reality. The phrase "passing by" is repeated numerous times throughout the song, emphasizing the idea of movement and change.
Overall, the lyrics to Passing By are poetic and highly evocative. They capture the complexity of emotions that can arise in relationships, as well as the larger existential questions that we all face. The song's dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes underscore these themes, creating a sense of atmosphere that is both melancholic and introspective.
Line by Line Meaning
Don't think you love me
I acknowledge that you may not love me.
Confusion settling in
I am feeling unsure and uncertain.
I don't think I'll be staying
I've come to the conclusion that I should leave.
Around here, anymore
This place is no longer where I belong.
There's no question that I love you
My love for you is undeniable.
But I'm living in my own time
I am living my life on my own terms.
And here I am debating
I am considering and weighing my options.
Whether I'm wrong, or right
I'm contemplating the best course of action.
Who am I
I am not in a position to judge.
To make a judgment of
To assess and determine.
Your life
Your experiences and choices.
I'm only
I am just.
Passing by
Moving on without interfering.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Henry Binns, Sam Hardaker, Sophie Alexandra Jessica Barker
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind