It's Only Life

The Shins

About It's Only Life

"It's Only Life" is a song performed by The Shins, issued as the second and final single from their album Port of Morrow. The song was written by the band's lead singer James Mercer.


Year:
2012
4:01
153 

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com

Died in the world, you've been cornered by a natural desire
You want to hop along with the giddy throng through life
But how will you learn to steer when you're grinding all your gears?

You've been talking for hours
You say time will wash every tower to the sea
And now you've got this worry in your heart

Well I guess it's only life, it's only natural
We all spend a little while going down the rabbit hole
The things they taught you, they're lining up to haunt you
You got your back against the wall
I call you on the telephone, won't you pick up the receiver?

I've been down the very road you're walking now
It doesn't have to be so dark and lonesome
It takes a while but we can figure this thing out
And turn it back around

You used to be such a lion
Before you got into all this crying on my lap
Back when you thought I'd never get this far

But did you really think I'd shut an open door?
The future's calling and I'mma answer her
The wheels in motion, I never drank your potion
And I know it breaks your heart
Open up your parachute, something's gotta stop the free fall

I've been down the very road you're walking now
It doesn't have to be so dark and lonesome
It takes a while but we can figure this thing out
And turn it back around

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com


The Shins

The Shins are an American indie rock band from Albuquerque, New Mexico, formed in 1996. The band consists of James Mercer (vocals, guitar), Joe Plummer (drums), Jessica Dobson (guitar), Yuuki Matthews (bass) and Richard Swift (keyboards). The band is currently based in Portland, Oregon. more »

1 fan

Written by: JAMES MERCER

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Band Background
"It's Only Life" is a song by American indie rock band The Shins, first formed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1996, and now based in Portland, Oregon.
Album Info
The song is from their fourth studio album, "Port of Morrow," released on March 20, 2012.
Lead Singer
The song was written by James Mercer, the lead vocalist and only remaining original member of The Shins.
Music Video
The music video for "It's Only Life" was directed by Hiro Murai. The video's unique eerie concept has James Mercer singing in an abandoned neighborhood as children and adults wander around aimlessly, entranced by a mysterious presence.
Production
The album "Port of Morrow," including the song "It's Only Life," was co-produced by James Mercer and Greg Kurstin, who has also worked with big-name artists like Adele, Sia, and Paul McCartney.
Reception
The song was well received by critics. Pitchfork, a trusted music criticism site, said that the song is "as comfy and worn-in as an old flannel shirt."
Lyrics Influence
The lyrics of "It's Only Life" reflect Mercer's introspective writing style, dealing with themes of heartbreak, uncertainty, and bravery in facing hardships.
Feeling of Nostalgia
Fans often note that "It's Only Life" carries a nostalgic feel, which may be attributed to Mercer's childhood experiences and how these influenced his songwriting.
Concert Favourite
"It's Only Life" is often included in The Shins' live performances and continues to be a fan favourite.
Chart Performance
While "It's Only Life" didn't make a significant impact on mainstream charts, the album "Port of Morrow" did peak at number 3 on the US Billboard 200 chart.

Discuss the It's Only Life Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "It's Only Life Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 29 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric-lf/854794/The+Shins/It%27s+Only+Life>.

    Missing lyrics by The Shins?

    Know any other songs by The Shins? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    It's Only Life

    1.4M
    12,078     180

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    Which European synth-pop band released “Take On Me”?
    A Duran Duran
    B Depeche Mode
    C Camouflage
    D A-ha

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    The Shins tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!

    Movies soundtrack

    It's Only Life

    »
    • Kyle XY