For fans of the band AJR, “Turning Out” is more than a song—it’s an anthem of self-discovery and growing up. This blog post will dissect the deeper meanings of “Turning Out,” exploring the lyrics and their relevance to personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned music enthusiast or someone merely curious about the stories behind the songs, this deep-dive will offer insights, trivia, and engaging storytelling that brings the song to life.
The Meaning of “Turning Out” by AJR
“Turning Out” by AJR is a deeply introspective song that captures the bittersweet essence of growing up and self-discovery. The track is a melancholic yet uplifting exploration of the uncertainty that comes with finding one’s identity amidst the chaos of life. Written by the three Met brothers, Adam, Jack, and Ryan, the song juxtaposes youthful nostalgia with the stark realities of adulthood. It’s filled with poignant lyrics like “I kinda thought I’d be happy by now,” which resonate with anyone who has faced the daunting question of their life’s purpose. Through its honest storytelling and unique blend of indie pop and electronic elements, “Turning Out” offers a musical experience that is both relatable and profoundly moving. Interestingly, the song’s introspection is reflective of the band’s own evolving creative process, making it a standout track that not only speaks to listeners but also tells a part of AJR’s own story.
Lyrics
[Verse 1: Jack Met]
I hold you
I hold you closer than I ever knew
I could do
But I’m confused
I thought I’d recognize when love was true
But I’m confused
[Pre-Chorus: Jack Met]
Am I ready for love?
Or maybe just a best friend
Should there be a difference?
Do you have instructions?
Maybe I’m stuck on what I see on TV
I grew up on Disney
But this don’t feel like Disney
[Chorus: Jack Met]
You say I turned out fine
I think I’m still turning out
You say I turned out fine
I think I’m still turning out
I think I’m still turning out
[Verse 2: Jack Met]
In my mind
I thought the birds would sing and sparks would fly
But it’s just quiet
Am I cruel?
Or am I ignorant or was I fooled
By the stories I knew
[Pre-Chorus: Jack Met]
Am I ready for love?
Or maybe just a best friend
Should there be a difference?
Do you have instructions?
Maybe I’m stuck on what I see on TV
I grew up on Disney
But this don’t feel like Disney
[Chorus: Jack Met]
You say I turned out fine
I think I’m still turning out
You say I turned out fine
I think I’m still turning out
I hope you stick around
We’re gonna figure it out
Who can I turn to now?
When I’m still turning out
When I’m still turning out
[Bridge: Jack Met]
I’m a little kid, and so are you
Don’t you go and grow up before I do
I’m a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I’m a little kid, and so are you
Don’t you go and grow up before I do
I’m a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I’m a little kid, and so are you
Don’t you go and grow up before I do
I’m a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I’m a little kid, and so are you
Don’t you go and grow up before I do
I’m a little kid with so much doubt
Do you want to be there to see how I turn out?
[Outro: Jack Met]
‘Cause I’m still turning out
Verse 1: Holding Close and Feeling Confused
Jack Met sets the stage with a poignant opening, “I hold you closer than I ever knew I could do, but I’m confused.” Here, he captures the essence of holding onto someone dearly while simultaneously grappling with confusion. This line resonates with many who find themselves in close relationships but are unsure of their feelings.
The Complexity of Feelings
The confusion Jack expresses isn’t just about love but also about understanding the depth and nature of his emotions. How often do we find ourselves in relationships—be it romantic or platonic—where our feelings are a tangled web of affection, doubt, and uncertainty?
Love vs. Friendship
Jack’s confusion raises an age-old question, “Am I ready for love, or maybe just a best friend?” This line challenges the listener to consider the fine line between love and friendship. Can one exist without the other? Should there be a clear distinction?
Influences of Media
The phrase “Maybe I’m stuck on what I see on TV” suggests that Jack’s understanding of love may be skewed by media portrayals. Growing up on Disney, he’s internalized a version of love that’s perhaps unrealistic, contributing to his confusion.
Pre-Chorus 1: The Disney Dilemma
“Maybe I’m stuck on what I see on TV, I grew up on Disney, but this don’t feel like Disney.” This pre-chorus reflects a generation that grew up with fairy tales and happily-ever-afters, only to face the harsh realities of adult relationships.
The Disney Influence
Disney movies have been a staple for many, shaping their perceptions of love and relationships from a young age. The idealized, often simplistic portrayals of romance in these films can set unrealistic expectations.
Real-Life vs. Fiction
Jack’s realization that real life doesn’t mirror Disney’s perfect endings is a common experience. Understanding that relationships require work, compromise, and sometimes pain, is part of maturing.
Chorus 1: The Process of Turning Out
“You say I turned out fine, I think I’m still turning out.” The chorus encapsulates the theme of ongoing self-discovery. Despite reassurances from others that he’s “turned out fine,” Jack acknowledges that his personal growth is far from complete.
Perception vs. Reality
Often, others perceive us as having “arrived” or reached a state of maturity. However, internal struggles and continuous growth are parts of the human experience that never truly end.
A Journey, Not a Destination
This chorus reminds us that self-discovery is a continuous process. It’s okay to admit that you’re still figuring things out, even if others believe you’ve got it all together.
Verse 2: Expectations vs. Reality
“In my mind, I thought the birds would sing and sparks would fly, but it’s just quiet.” Jack reflects on his expectations of love and how reality often fails to meet them.
The Quiet Moments
Contrary to the dramatic depictions of love filled with grand gestures and constant excitement, real relationships often thrive in quiet, everyday moments.
Misguided Expectations
Jack’s expectations, shaped by stories and media, leave him questioning his reality. This sense of disillusionment is a universal experience, as many grapple with the disparity between expectations and reality.
Pre-Chorus 2: The Struggle for Clarity
“Am I cruel? Or am I ignorant or was I fooled by the stories I knew?” Jack questions whether his misunderstanding of love is due to his own shortcomings or external influences.
Self-Doubt
Jack’s introspection reveals a vulnerability that many can relate to. The doubt about whether his confusion stems from his own flaws or external sources is a poignant reflection of the human condition.
Influence of Stories
The stories we grow up with shape our perceptions and expectations. Jack’s realization that these stories may have fooled him into unrealistic expectations is a critical step in his self-discovery.
Chorus 2: Ongoing Self-Discovery
“You say I turned out fine, I think I’m still turning out.” This repetition of the chorus reinforces the theme of continuous growth and self-discovery.
Reiterating Growth
The repetition serves to emphasize that self-discovery is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing process. It normalizes the feeling of incompleteness and encourages acceptance of one’s evolving self.
Seeking Reassurance
Jack’s plea for reassurance—“I hope you stick around, we’re gonna figure it out”—highlights the importance of support and companionship in the journey of self-discovery.
Bridge: The Innocence of Youth
“I’m a little kid, and so are you. Don’t you go and grow up before I do.” The bridge brings a nostalgic element to the song, reflecting on the innocence of youth and the fear of growing up too quickly.
Holding onto Innocence
The desire to hold onto the innocence of childhood is a sentiment that resonates with many. The fear of losing that innocence and the accompanying simplicity of life is a universal experience.
Growing Up Together
Jack’s plea to grow up together, rather than apart, underscores the importance of shared experiences and mutual support in navigating the complexities of adulthood.
Outro: Acceptance of Ongoing Growth
“‘Cause I’m still turning out.” The song concludes with an acceptance of the ongoing nature of self-discovery and personal growth.
Acceptance
Jack’s acceptance that he is still “turning out” is a powerful message. It encourages listeners to accept their own ongoing journeys and to recognize that it’s okay to be a work in progress.
Inspiring Others
By sharing his vulnerability and ongoing struggles, Jack inspires others to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and growth.
The Impact of “Turning Out” on Fans
The song “Turning Out” has resonated deeply with fans, becoming an anthem for those grappling with similar feelings of confusion and self-discovery.
Personal Connections
Many fans have shared their personal connections to the song, expressing how it has helped them feel understood and less alone in their struggles.
Community of Support
The song has fostered a sense of community among listeners, creating a space where people can share their experiences and support each other in their journeys.
The Broader Message of AJR’s Music
“Turning Out” is just one example of AJR’s music that tackles deep, introspective themes with honesty and vulnerability.
Relatable Themes
AJR’s music often explores themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the challenges of growing up, making their songs relatable and impactful.
Encouraging Authenticity
The band’s willingness to tackle these themes openly encourages listeners to be authentic and honest about their own experiences.
How “Turning Out” Fits into AJR’s Discography
“Turning Out” fits seamlessly into AJR’s discography, which is known for its introspective lyrics and innovative sound.
A Consistent Theme
The themes explored in “Turning Out” are consistent with those found in other AJR songs, creating a cohesive narrative throughout their music.
Evolution of Sound
The song also showcases AJR’s evolving sound, blending catchy melodies with meaningful lyrics to create music that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
AJR’s “Turning Out” is a powerful exploration of self-discovery and the ongoing nature of personal growth. The song’s honest lyrics and relatable themes resonate deeply with listeners, creating a sense of community and support. By accepting that we are all “still turning out,” we can approach our own journeys with compassion and understanding. For those looking to explore more about AJR’s music and the themes they tackle, be sure to check out their discography and join the conversation with fellow fans.