Lane Boy

Twenty One Pilots' song 'Lane Boy' from their 2015 album 'Blurryface' is a defiant anthem that challenges the music industry's norms and expectations. The lyrics express the band's refusal to conform to the prescribed 'lanes' of musical genres and commercial success. The repeated line 'They say: Stay in your lane, boy, lane boy, but we go where we want to' serves as a rebellious chorus, emphasizing the band's commitment to creative freedom over fitting into a specific mold.

The song also touches on the transient nature of fame and success, questioning 'But will they be alive tomorrow?' This line suggests a skepticism about the longevity of artists who follow the industry's formula without innovation or authenticity. The band criticizes the focus on 'singles on the radio' as 'currency,' implying that the true value of music is being compromised for commercial gain. The mention of 'a tempo change every other time change' symbolizes their desire to keep evolving musically, rather than sticking to a predictable pattern.

'Lane Boy' also delves into personal themes of struggle and resilience. The lyrics 'I wasn’t raised in the hood, but I know a thing or two about pain and darkness' indicate that regardless of one's background, everyone experiences hardship. The band credits music as a means of coping with these challenges, reinforcing the importance of authenticity in their art. The song's bridge, which discusses loyalty and the lengths one would go to protect loved ones, adds an emotional depth to the message of staying true to oneself and one's values, even in the face of industry pressure.