Fun's "We Are Young" Lyrics Meaning (2023)

by SMF · Published · Updated

We Are Young is a famous song by the American band Fun featuring singer and songwriter Janelle Monáe.

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The song talks about being young and just enjoying the liveliness, lustiness and buoyancy of youth. According to Fun lead singer Nate Ruess, the song’s lyrics are autobiographical and are inspired by a memorable event in his life.

Speaking with Rolling Stone, Ruess said the memorable event in question that inspired the lyrics of the song was a night he went out binge drinking. On that night, he got so intoxicated that he was kicked out of a taxi he was riding in because he vomited in it.

According to Ruess, it took him a full day to become a proper “functioning adult” after that wild drinking night. He went on to refer to that night as his “worst drinking night of all time”.

“Tonight
We are young
So let’s set the world on fire
We can burn brighter than the sun”

A More Detailed Analysis of the Lyrics of “We Are Young”

Like was said above, this song is based on an actual experience that Nate Ruess, the frontman of Fun, had, in which he ended up so smashed that it took him an entire day to recuperate.

Verse 1

At the beginning of the first verse it is implied that he may be in New York City, with a reference to the Empire State building and all.But more to the point is the metaphor that reference is connected to. And that more plainly illustrates that the vocalist and his homeys are effectively taking drugs.

Later parts of the verse are more difficult to understand. Indeed they read as if they were written by someone who wasrecovering from a major hangover.But what we are able to ascertain early on is that the setting is a bar.

Also, in addition to his homey the vocalist is there most-importantly with his “lover”, and both of them seem as if inebriated.

Chorus

That latter notion is further buttressed by the chorus, though in this case the lyrics which theoretically point to inebriation are metaphorical.Or more directly explained, what Nate is rather asserting is a notion like he and the addressee should live life to fullest since they “are young”.

And based on the information above we are presuming that in his mind, if not for both of them, that living up to this ideology involves consuming a considerable degree of alcohol.

Verse 2

Now if we haven’t already made the point clear, this song is one which relies heavily on poetic language.So accordingly, considering the wording of the second verse, we are compelled to go even further out on a limb.

And it may be that what Nate is saying is that the addressee, i.e. this romantic interest, is also dating someone else – perhaps cheating, we can say, from his perspective.Thus the implication is that they’re in a troubled relationship that he wants to mend.

And – again digging deep here – under normal circumstances, i.e. if they were alone, the two of them would be quarreling.But everything is all good since this particular night their “friends are back”.

Or explained, more simply the vocalist is using the company of others to get closer to the addressee, who on a more directly-interpersonal level he has some type of beef with.Thus going back to some of the more challenging parts of the first verse, perhaps the “some sunglasses” reference points to another dude trying to kick it to his lady.

(Video) Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Also it now becomes more obvious that the “apologies” would be due to something the vocalist did to offend the addressee related to their aforementioned beef, or something like that.Let’s just say conclusively as far as this romance is concerned that he appears to be the apologetic one.

Interlude and Conclusion

Meanwhile, the interlude and bridge don’t read as if they are related to romance at all. Here, the vocalist is rather expressing a desire for someone to ‘carry him home tonight’.

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We could postulate, based on the above, that said someone would be a lover, but the second half of the bridge doesn’t really support that presumption.

Instead it reads like Nate is in need of the support of any genuinely caring person, an ‘angel’ even. And considering that, as already established, we know this narrative was inspired by him getting dangerously drunk, it would be easy to conclude that he’s literally talking about someone assisting him in reaching home due to being too incapacitated to do so himself, as even implied back in the first verse.

But again, it would be difficult to directly connect such an idea to the overall narrative and thesis sentiment play, unless what he is actually putting forth is a notion more macrocosmic like youth possessing the tendency to damage themselves in the name of enjoying life, or what have you.

It is also feasible that all of the above actually went down in real life on said evening, which Ruess has called the “worst drinking night of all time”.A lot of times when people overdo it with the booze, it’s because they’re dealing with some sort of stress.

So in trying to put all of these different pieces together, we’ll conclude that the reason the vocalist got so smashed in the first place was due to his less-than-ideal romantic situation

Facts about “We Are Young”

We Are Young was written by producer Jeff Bhasker and all 3 members of Fun (Nate Ruess, Jack Antonoff and Andrew Dost). Bhasker handled the entire production of the song.

According to producer Bhasker, singer Rihanna was initially the one they wanted to feature on the song instead of Janelle Monáe. However, things didn’t work out as planned, and they had to settle on Monáe.

The song was officially released on 20th September 2011. It was the first single from the band’s commercially successful second studio album titled Some Nights.

In 2012, the song was the most listened to song by users of Facebook.

At the 2013 Grammy Awards, We Are Young was nominated for three Grammy Awards, winning one – the Grammy Award for Song of the Year. In winning the award, the song beat other famous songs including The A Team by Ed Sheeran, Stronger by Kelly Clarkson and Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen.

The song peaked at number 1 in various countries across the globe, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It’s remarkable achievements, currently makes it one of Fun’s most successful songs of their career.

Aside the aforementioned countries, this song also reached position 1 in the following regions:

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Canada
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Mexico
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Scotland

Notable Appearances

The song was covered on the famous American musical comedy-drama TV series Glee in December 2011.

It was used as the soundtrack of a Chevrolet advertisement that was shown on Super Bowl XLVI in February 2012.

FYI, the song’s appearances on the aforementioned platforms played an instrumental role in turning it into a smash hit worldwide.

8 Responses

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  1. Anonymous says:

    February 24, 2022 at 7:28 pm

    the first verse is talking about how he abused her

    Reply

    • TheHat says:

      October 9, 2022 at 10:29 pm

      “Abused her” mentally, from a breakup. That “scar” isn’t physical, it’s a mental thing. Probably as the “sunglasses”, seriously who wears sunglasses in a bar, except “dickish guys/girls” who hit on people believing they are better than anything the person they are hitting on has had before, is hitting on this guy’s ex and she/ they aren’t interested in that person hitting on them, and tells them so.

      Reply

  2. Disgusted says:

    September 21, 2022 at 9:23 pm

    Totally missed the physical abuse that left a scar. Great analysis… not.

    Reply

    (Video) Fun - We Are Young (Feat. Janelle Monáe) Lyrics

  3. Anonymous says:

    October 9, 2022 at 10:19 pm

    First, technically Scotland is still part of the UK, so yeah, reached number one in both, as they have a shared music board. Unless you want to break it down to 4 separate boards.
    Also, your “physical abuse”, from the above comments is so bullshite! Those “scars” aren’t physical, but mental. He is was with her, but they broke up, though he still cares about her, and maybe wishes he hadn’t broken up with her, but things changed, and it made sense to end it. Though, they are still in the same circle of friends so have to deal with each other, and will be there when they, or he, drinks too much. Some of you are too quick to jump on the physical abuse wagon. Sure, it happens, but not in this song! Why would the person he apparently physically abused be willing for him to take them home, or take him home, if that was the case?!!! It’s a metaphor for a relationship breakup, that he blames himself for.

    Reply

  4. TheHat says:

    October 9, 2022 at 10:35 pm

    In fact, looking closer at the lyrics, that “scar” is mental, and more about him having cheated on her a some point. But she is still with him, and he regrets it. Still NOT physical abuse!

    Reply

  5. Cassie says:

    February 5, 2023 at 8:15 pm

    I’ve always taken the ‘sunglasses’ to be a dismissive way of referring to a guy chatting up his girl at the bar – and that ‘sunglasses’ is enquiring how she got a scar that the singer says “I know I gave it to you months ago. I know you’re trying to forget” and goes on to sing about “the holes in my apologies, you know I’m trying to take it back” suggesting he hit her in a drunken argument and that they are both trying move past it, but he thinks his excuses are weak. Had never considered it could be a mental scar, but that’s possibly because of the video! But if it WAS a mental scar, how come ‘sunglasses’ has brought it up in the short time the singer has been in the bathroom? I think that’s another reason I’ve always thought it was a physical scar. ??‍♀️

    Reply

    (Video) We Are Young - Fun.: ft. Janelle Monáe [Lyrics/Vietsub]

  6. Anonymous says:

    April 14, 2023 at 1:24 pm

    Definitely about domestic abuse

    Reply

  7. Abir says:

    May 28, 2023 at 7:29 pm

    Yes, according to song’s writer.. emotional scar.

    https://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/nate-ruess-fun-home-play-new-york-city-article-1.1095906

    “A fan randomly approached me the other day,” the songwriter says, “and almost attacked me, saying, ‘That song’s about domestic abuse. What’s the deal?'”

    When he told her it was not, she replied, “Yes, it is. Who are you lying to?”

    Ruess replied: “Trust me, I wrote the song, I know.”

    So what does it mean?

    “It’s metaphoric,” he explains. “A scar doesn’t have to be visual. It can be emotional.”

    Reply

(Video) Fun.: We Are Young ft. Janelle Monáe (ACOUSTIC)

Leave a Reply

(Video) Fun - We Are Young Ft. Janelle Monáe [1 Hour Loop]

FAQs

What is meant by forever young? ›

"Forever young" is a belief that while your body grows older your mind, soul, and heart will still remain young. Thus you are "forever young" even when you're old.

Does Janelle Monae sing in we are young? ›

The band invited Janelle Monáe to provide guest vocals on "We Are Young" through her friendship with Bhasker. After being played the song, Monáe was enthused and recorded her vocals in Bristol, England.

What is the meaning of some nights by fun reddit? ›

Again, this song seems to address Nate's struggle with fame and discovering his identity within it. It's changed his whole life and his outlook. He's left everything he once had to pursue his music and he still has doubts. Looking deeper, this song addresses what Nate said in the intro.

What is the meaning of the Some Nights music video? ›

The video is of a fictional American Civil War night battle where the band performs on the battlefield. The lead singer, Nate Ruess, also sings as he rallies a Union regiment in preparation for battle.

What is the secret of Forever Young? ›

Intelligence, diligence, sense of proportion, kindness, humbleness, and sincerity make you look young beautiful, healthy, and gracious while anger, impudence, envy, and egoism cause your face to change over years and transform into an evil mask.

Does Forever Young lighten the skin? ›

Forever Young Lightening Cream, is a very effective maintenance cream that brightens and evens out your skin complexion. It clears discoloration and provides long-lasting moisture to your skin. This lotion prevents excessive melanin production resulting in a brighter skin tone.

Why did the band fun break up? ›

On February 4, 2015, the band announced on its Facebook page and their official website that they were not splitting up, but were taking some time off to pursue other projects: first and foremost to answer the question that has been raised most often: fun is not breaking up.

Where is the minor 6th in We Are Young? ›

Minor 6. In the song “We Are Young”, during the chorus, when the lyrics sing “…so let's set the world on fire, we can burn brighter…” The interval that is sung on “fire” is a minor 6th. This is a more difficult interval to hear and is another interval of the dissonant category.

Does Yvette Young sing? ›

Musician and songwriter Yvette Young uses her music not only as a form of self-expression but also tells riveting stories through her art. Born and raised in San Jose, California, Young spent a lot of her childhood playing the piano and violin.

What does we always have fun mean? ›

To enjoy oneself; to experience enjoyable activities.

What does that does fun mean? ›

noun. something that provides mirth or amusement: A picnic would be fun. enjoyment or playfulness: She's full of fun.

Was a fun night meaning? ›

You refer to an activity or situation as fun if you think it is pleasant and enjoyable and it causes you to feel happy. Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers.

What was the controversy with the song into the night? ›

The song's controversial lyrics, "She's just sixteen years old," came about after Tepper made a comment about the 16-year-old girl who used to walk Mardones' basset hound. In an interview with KTLA some time before his death, Mardones says he told Tepper, "She's just 16 years old, leave her alone."

What is the speakers message in the music of the night? ›

"The Music of the Night" is sung after the Phantom lures Christine Daaé to his lair beneath the Opera House. He seduces Christine with "his music" of the night, his voice putting her into a type of trance. He sings of his unspoken love for her and urges her to forget the world and life she knew before.

Why did Avicii sing the Nights? ›

“The Nights” was written and released by Swedish DJ Tim Bergling, better known as Avicii, and singer/songwriter Nicholas Furlong in 2014. Avicii noted that he wrote the song as an ode for his father. Originally it was titled “My Father Told Me” when he first sent it to his manager.

How can I look 20 years younger naturally? ›

19 Easy Ways to Look Younger, According to Experts
  1. Getty Images. ...
  2. Try a Collagen-Based Face Cream. ...
  3. Use a concealer for dark circles. ...
  4. Keep your eye makeup simple. ...
  5. Curl those lashes. ...
  6. Apply SPF Daily. ...
  7. Take your time removing your makeup.
Nov 4, 2022

How can I look younger at 30 naturally? ›

8 Ways to Maintain a Youthful Appearance
  1. Stay out of the sun. While it's true that the sun isn't the only factor in the overall appearance of your skin, it does play a huge role. ...
  2. Drink plenty of water. ...
  3. Get some ZZZs. ...
  4. Rub it in. ...
  5. Eat a diet rich in plants. ...
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How to look younger at 30? ›

Table of Contents
  1. Introduction.
  2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun.
  3. Use Anti-Aging Skin Care Products.
  4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol to Prevent Aging. Ask Your Dermatologist About Botox. ...
  5. Consider a Chemical Peel to Reduce Signs of Aging.
  6. Use a Humidifier.
  7. Consider Laser Treatment for Smooth, Flawless Skin.
  8. Drink Plenty of Water.
Mar 16, 2022

What is the biggest one hit wonder ever? ›

#ARTISTTITLE
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Are the members of fun still friends? ›

Despite stepping away from fun., Antonoff, Dost, and Ruess continue to keep in touch and support one another on their current and future endeavours as creators.

Who did Lena Dunham date from fun? ›

Personal life. In 2012, Dunham began dating Jack Antonoff, the lead guitarist of the band fun. and the founder of Bleachers.

How long does it take to learn intervals? ›

If you want to learn how to identify intervals and scales in music, it could take anywhere from 4-8 months because there are a lot of different intervals to practice (learn about intervals here in this music theory lesson).

How do you memorize intervals? ›

A common way to recognize intervals is to associate them with reference songs that you know well. For example, the song Amazing Grace begins with a perfect fourth. So when you hear an interval that sounds like the 2 first notes of Amazing Grace, you know instantly that it's a Perfect 4th.

How do you memorize intervals by ear? ›

The best way we've found to practice identifying note intervals by ear is to associate each interval with a familiar song or melody that you could likely sing in your head already. All you have to do is commit a piece of the melody to memory, and voilà, you're on your way to interval recall!

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Covet (Math rock band from San Jose)

Based in San Jose and consisting of guitarist Yvette Young, bassist David Adamiak, and drummer Forrest Rice.

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Math rock is typified by its rhythmic complexity, seen as mathematical in character by listeners and critics. While most rock music uses a 4. 4 meter (however accented or syncopated), math rock makes use of more non-standard, frequently changing time signatures such as 5. 4, 7. 8, 11.

What genre is covet? ›

Covet's genre is officially called math rock, which I would perhaps prepend with “maidenly”. Yvette Young. Yvette is from San Jose, California. She released her first album, Acoustics EP, in 2014, and to date she has recorded four solo albums, four albums with Covet, plus the Ares single.

Who is a fun loving person? ›

enjoying life in a lively, lighthearted way; spirited; playful: fun-loving friends.

What do you call someone who is always having fun? ›

chipper. chirpy. confident. convivial. devil-may-care.

Is having fun a emotion? ›

Also, fun is an emotional experience, not an activity; as we all know, the exact same activity can result in extremely different emotional results.

What does beer and skittles mean? ›

beer and skittles in British English

(often used with a negative) informal. an easy time; amusement.

What does it mean if someone calls you fun? ›

If you say that someone is fun, you mean that you enjoy being with them because they say and do interesting or amusing things.

Why is it called fun? ›

The word fun is associated with sports, entertaining media, high merriment, and amusement. Although its etymology is uncertain, it has been speculated that it may be derived from Middle English fonne (fool) and fonnen (the one fooling the other).

What does fun time girl mean? ›

a young woman whose main interest is to enjoy life and have fun.

What is goodnight slang? ›

Related Slang
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How do you say it was really fun? ›

adjective
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Sleeping With the Enemy: Symphonie Fantastique (- Dream of a Witches' Sabbath) - song and lyrics by Hector Berlioz | Spotify.

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The song "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah" won the 1948 Academy Award for Best Original Song and Baskett received an Academy Honorary Award for his performance as Uncle Remus. Since its initial release the film has attracted controversy, with critics characterizing its portrayal of African Americans and plantation life as racist.

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Your little evening concert is actually a daily test of an emergency broadcast system to alert citizens of dangers such as tsunamis and industrial accidents. More than 90 percent of cities, towns and villages in Japan have similar systems, but the timing of the daily test varies as does the music played.

Why does Christine faint in music of the night? ›

Because Christine is so enamored with the idea of her deceased father sending her an “Angel of Music”, the fact that she has finally come face to face with him, her teacher, and is hearing his own music right before her is very overwhelming, therefore causing her to faint.

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Explanation: a)The poet did not want to disturb the girl who was singing and thus he kept listening to the song and made no movement and noise. b) He felt the song as a cherished memory in his heart as he walked away from the scene. c)The song felt mesmerized and the poet stops to listen to it.

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Why was Avicii special? ›

Avicii (aka Tim Bergling) was one of Scandinavia's most acclaimed producers, performers and songwriters of all time. Avicii united people through his music and his legacy lives on through his songs, the artists he inspired and his fandom.

What is the origin of Forever Young? ›

Written as a lullaby for his eldest son Jesse, born in 1966, Dylan's song relates a father's hopes that his child will remain strong and happy.

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Dot the gel across your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Gently massage with circular movements, starting from the center to the contours of your face. For best results, repeat the application at least twice a day. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, and use it with 7-day magic soap. or Clinic clear soap.

How can I be Forever Young? ›

10 Ways to Stay Beautiful and Forever Young
  1. Stop Smoking. Smoking can lower your lifespan and make you look older on top of it. ...
  2. Keep Yourself Active. It's crucial to stay physically active in order to stay young. ...
  3. Avoid Stress. ...
  4. Eat Right. ...
  5. Avoid Alcohol. ...
  6. Get A Good Night's Rest. ...
  7. Socialize Often. ...
  8. Maintain Your Weight.
Feb 19, 2021

What does Forever Young at heart mean? ›

: thinking and acting like young people : active and having a lot of energy. The band members are still young at heart.

What is the history of forever? ›

History. Forever Living was founded in 1978 in Tempe, Arizona by Rex Maughan. By the 1990s, Rex Maughan had purchased the Texas company Aloe Vera of America, with Aloe Vera of America selling its products to Forever Living for distribution.

Videos

1. We Don’t Talk About UNO! (Fun Squad “Bruno” Music Video Cover)
(Kids Fun TV)
2. "We Want Fun" - ANDREW W.K. - Official Music Video from Jackass: The Movie
(AndrewWK)
3. 100 Spiderman In Our House! (Spider-Verse)
(Kids Fun TV)
4. We Pretend To Send Ourselves Overseas To Hawaii Again! (skit) Kids Fun TV Family Vacation
(Kids Fun TV)
5. We Don't Talk About Bruno! Fun Squad Music Video
(Kids Fun TV)
6. We Pretend To Send Ourselves! Fun Squad Compilation
(Kids Fun TV)

References

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