From The Ground Up

Dan + Shay's song 'From The Ground Up' is a touching tribute to enduring love and the journey of building a life together. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple's commitment to each other, inspired by the long-lasting relationship of the narrator's grandparents. The song begins with a nostalgic reference to 'Grandma and grandpa' who have spent 65 years together in 'one little house,' symbolizing a lifetime of shared memories and unwavering love. This sets the stage for the narrator's own aspirations of creating a similar legacy with their partner.

The song emphasizes the importance of taking things 'one day at a time' and cherishing the small moments that make up a lifetime. The imagery of 'ten little toes' and a 'painted pink room' evokes the joy and anticipation of starting a family. The repeated promise to 'build this love from the ground up' signifies a strong foundation based on mutual support, trust, and dedication. The narrator vows to be the person their partner's father hoped they would be, highlighting the significance of familial expectations and the desire to honor them.

Throughout the song, there is an acknowledgment of life's inevitable challenges, such as 'the clouds are gonna roll' and 'the earth's gonna shake.' Despite these obstacles, the narrator pledges to be a 'shelter through the wind and the rain,' reinforcing the theme of unwavering support. The song concludes with a hopeful vision of the future, imagining a time when the couple will look back on 'thousands of pictures' and a life well-lived. The enduring message is one of love, resilience, and the beauty of building a life together, 'from the ground up.'