Express Yourself

Charles Wright and The Watts' song 'Express Yourself' is a vibrant anthem celebrating individuality and self-expression. The repeated exhortation to 'Express Yourself!' serves as a powerful reminder that personal authenticity is paramount. The lyrics emphasize that one doesn't need external validation or assistance to be true to oneself. This message is particularly resonant in a world where societal pressures often dictate behavior and appearance. The song encourages listeners to embrace their unique qualities and talents, doing whatever they do with excellence and confidence.

The song's lyrics also highlight the importance of substance over appearance. The lines 'It's not what you look like / When you're doin' what you're doin' / It's what you're doin' when you're doin' / What you look like you're doin'!' suggest that true value lies in actions and intentions rather than superficial looks. This perspective challenges the often shallow judgments based on appearances, urging people to focus on the essence of their actions and the authenticity behind them.

Moreover, 'Express Yourself' touches on the universal nature of self-expression. The mention of people 'doin' it on the moon' and 'in the jungle too' illustrates that the drive to express oneself transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. The song also acknowledges the disparity in material wealth, stating that 'some people have everything, and other people don't,' but ultimately asserts that material possessions are meaningless if they don't align with one's true desires. This reinforces the idea that genuine self-expression and fulfillment come from within, not from external acquisitions.