Hero

Family of the Year's song 'Hero' delves into the theme of resisting the pressure to be someone's savior or an idealized figure. The lyrics express a desire for normalcy and the simple life, rather than the burden of being put on a pedestal. The protagonist wants to be released from the expectations of being a 'hero' or a 'big man,' preferring instead to live a life similar to others, without the weight of others' aspirations on their shoulders.

The song also touches on the struggle to maintain personal relationships and the pursuit of happiness within the confines of an ordinary life. The mention of 'holding down a job to keep my girl around' and buying 'some new strings' suggests a yearning for contentment in love and music, which are parts of the American dream. The 'American dreams' line hints at the larger cultural narrative of seeking success and fulfillment, yet the song's character seeks protection from these pressures, highlighting the vulnerability and commonality of human experience.

'Hero' by Family of the Year ultimately speaks to the universal desire to be accepted for who we are, without the grandeur of heroism. It's a call for authenticity and the recognition that everyone, including the protagonist, has their own battles and dreams. The song resonates with listeners who feel the weight of expectations and the longing to simply be part of the crowd, fighting life's battles on equal footing with everyone else.