City Song

Grace VanderWaal's 'City Song' is a vibrant celebration of urban life, capturing the essence of a bustling city through its sounds and rhythms. The song opens with imagery of 'fresh laid concrete' and 'melodies blowing,' setting the stage for a day filled with movement and discovery. VanderWaal encourages listeners to embrace the spontaneity of city life, suggesting that the journey is more important than the destination. The lyrics 'don't care where we're going, but the day is wasting, so just keep moving' emphasize a carefree attitude and the importance of living in the moment.

The chorus of the song highlights the unique symphony created by the city's sounds. VanderWaal describes the 'rumble of voices' as the bass and the 'horns just on the beat, honkin' along,' turning everyday noises into a musical composition. This metaphor suggests that the city itself is a living, breathing entity with its own rhythm and harmony. By inviting listeners to 'be the harmony' and acknowledging that 'no note is wrong,' VanderWaal promotes a message of inclusivity and acceptance, where every individual's contribution is valued.

In the bridge, VanderWaal advises listeners to 'close your eyes and disconnect for a moment or two' to truly appreciate the urban symphony. This moment of introspection allows for a deeper connection with the environment, transforming the mundane into something magical. The repeated refrain 'let's take the city and make it our song' serves as a call to action, encouraging people to find beauty and inspiration in their surroundings. 'City Song' ultimately celebrates the dynamic and ever-changing nature of urban life, urging listeners to embrace the chaos and create their own unique melody within it.