Check It Out

John Mellencamp

About Check It Out

"Check It Out" is a 1987 song by John Mellencamp released as the third single from his album The Lonesome Jubilee in 1988. The single was a top 20 hit, reaching number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.


Year:
1987
166 
#2

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Million young poets
Screamin' out their words 
To a world full of people
Just livin' to be heard
Future generations
Ridin' on the highways that we built
I hope, that they have better understanding

Check it out
Goin' to work on Monday
Check it out
Got yourself a family
Check it out
All utility bills have been paid
You can't tell your best buddy
That you love him
So check it out
Where does our time go
Check it out
Got a brand new house in escrow
Check it out
Sleepin' with your back
To your loved one
This is all, we have learned
About happiness

Check it out, 
Forgot to say hello to my neighbours
Check it out
Sometimes I question my own behavior
Check it out
Talkin' about the girls, we've
Seen on the sly
Just to tell our souls
We're still the young lions
So check it out
Getting' too drunk on Saturdays
Check it out
Playin' football with the kids
On Sundays
Check it out
Soaring with the eagles all week long
And this is all, we have learned
About living
This is all, we have learned
About living

A million young poets
Screamin' out their words
Maybe someday
Those words will be heard
By future generations
Ridin' on the highways that we built
Maybe they'll have a better understanding
Check it out
Maybe they'll have a better understanding
Check it out
Maybe they'll have a better understanding
Check it out
Maybe they'll have a better understanding
Check it out
Hope they'll have a better understanding
Check it out

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


John Mellencamp

John Mellencamp (born October 7, 1951) is an American rock singer-songwriter, musician, painter and occasional actor known for his catchy, populist brand of heartland rock which emphasizes traditional instrumentation. He has sold over 40 million albums worldwide and has amassed 22 Top 40 hits in the United States. In addition, he holds the record for the most tracks by a solo artist to hit number-one on the Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart, with seven, and has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards, winning one. His latest album, No Better Than This, was released on August 17, 2010 to widespread critical acclaim. more »

4 fans

Written by: RODNEY LEMAY, ANDRE MAURICE BARNES

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Artist Background
John Mellencamp, sometimes known by his former stage name John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American musician and songwriter known for his blend of heartland rock that features traditional instrumentation, catchy pop hooks, and expressive, plainspoken lyrics.
Song Release
"Check It Out" is one of Mellencamp's most popular songs. It was released as the third single from his album “The Lonesome Jubilee” in 1987.
Chart Performance
The song peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also reached number 3 on the Top Rock Tracks chart, confirming its status as one of Mellencamp's biggest hits.
Lyric Content
The lyrics of "Check It Out" are reflective, examining the American Dream in an introspective manner. They articulate concern about what the pursuit of this ideal has done to the country and its people.
Music Video
The official music video for "Check It Out" reflects the socio-political commentary of the song. It shows Mellencamp singing in front of several iconic American images, such as a waving flag and a tractor in a farm field.
Album Context
Mellencamp's album "The Lonesome Jubilee," which contains "Check It Out," is renowned for its distinctive sound. Mellencamp wanted the album to have a distinctively Americana sound and incorporated a wide range of instruments, including violin, accordion, and banjo.
Critical Reception
The song has received generally positive reviews from music critics. It's praised for the introspective and somewhat critical look at American life, along with its catchy and appealing heartland rock sound.
Live Performances
"Check It Out" is a fan favorite at Mellencamp's live shows. It showcases his rootsy, heartland-inspired sound and sophisticated songwriting.
Song Legacy
The song remains one of Mellencamp's most well-known and widely recognized songs. It's frequently played on classic rock and adult contemporary radio stations, and continues to be a popular track in Mellencamp's discography.
Acoustic Version
In more recent years, Mellencamp has performed an acoustic version of "Check It Out" at some concerts. This rendition gives the song a more stripped-down, intimate feel.

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1988

    Billboard #14


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