Anyways

The song revolves around the themes of vulnerability, dreams, and the battles one faces while trying to pursue those dreams. It highlights the importance of support from loved ones during tough times. The mood shifts from emptiness and longing to determination and defiance, showing the emotional arc of someone who starts off feeling defeated but finds the strength to push through. Zach Bryan wrote this song during a reflective period, capturing the essence of his personal struggles and the encouragement he received from someone close to him.

Verse 1

"You looked me in the eyes last summer
Said you hate all the pain I'm under
Told me to play your favorite cover
Of 'Between the Bars'"

This opening sets the stage beautifully. The speaker recalls a pivotal moment with someone who understands their struggles. The mention of "Between the Bars" hints at themes of longing and escape, as that song itself deals with searching for comfort. The listener feels the weight of the speaker's pain and the connection they share.

"Been feelin' fuckin' empty lately
I wanna go and see the sea
But I don't got the gasoline
To get that far"

Here, the speaker expresses a deep sense of emptiness. They want to break free and find solace by the sea, but they feel stuck because they lack the means to do so. This vulnerability captures the feeling of being trapped in one's circumstances, emphasizing the desire for change but the reality of limitations.

Chorus

"She said, 'Don't stop now
Still got that dreamer in your eye
Saw you back when you played West Virginia
When you were too scared to go on stage
But played anyway'"

This chorus is a powerful shift. The voice of encouragement comes through, urging the speaker not to give up. It highlights that despite fears and doubts, they still have that spark within them. The reference to performing in West Virginia serves as a reminder of past bravery, suggesting that overcoming fear is part of the journey toward achieving dreams.

Verse 2

"You looked me in the eyes last summer
After spendin' all of it inside
Underneath the covers tryna hide
From the world outside"

This verse revisits the previous theme of isolation. The speaker reflects on their tendency to withdraw from the world, showing a struggle with mental health and the desire to escape reality. The repetition reinforces the importance of the connection with the person who supports them, emphasizing how crucial these moments of understanding are.

"And I ain't feelin' empty lately
I'm gonna go and make them see
I'll always have the gasoline
To get that far"

Here, there's a notable shift in tone. The speaker declares they’re no longer feeling empty and are ready to take action. This newfound determination indicates growth and strength, suggesting that the encouragement they've received has sparked a willingness to fight for their dreams.

Bridge

"And she said, 'If you quit now
You'll let those greedy bastards win somehow
How the time, it passes
How they hate when you feel afraid
Then play anyway'"

In the bridge, the encouragement gets even stronger. The speaker's confidant warns them that quitting means giving in to negativity. This part highlights the passage of time and societal pressures, emphasizing that fear shouldn't stop them from playing, essentially, from pursuing their passions. It’s a rallying cry to embrace vulnerability and keep pushing forward.

Chorus (Repeated)

"So don't stop now
Still got that dreamer in ya'
I saw you back when you played West Virginia
When you were too scared to go on stage
But played anyway"

The repetition of the chorus reinforces the message of resilience and hope. The speaker is reminded of their potential and the importance of continuing to chase their dreams, no matter how daunting it feels.

Closing Thoughts

The song "Anyways" resonates with many listeners because it captures a universal struggle: the battle against self-doubt and the importance of support from loved ones. Zach Bryan’s raw honesty and emotional storytelling make it relatable, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, there's a glimmer of hope and the strength to carry on. The blend of vulnerability and determination throughout the song leaves a lasting impact, encouraging listeners to embrace their dreams despite the challenges.