AJR

Lyrics

[Chorus: Jack Met]
I've been so good
I've been helpful and friendly
I've been so good
Why am I feeling empty?
I've been so good
I've been so good this year
I've been so good
But it's still getting harder
I've been so good
Where the hell is the karma?
I've been so good
I've been so good this year

[Verse 1: Jack Met]
Why are you asking me why?
My days and nights are filled with disappointment
Fine, oh, no, everything's fine
I'm not sure why I booked today's appointment

[Chorus: Jack Met]
I've been so good
I've been helpful and friendly
I've been so good
Why am I feeling empty?
I've been so good
I've been so good this year
And I've been so good
But it's still getting harder
I've been so good
Where the hell is the karma?
I've been so good
I've been so good this year
[Verse 2: Jack Met]
What? Am I normal or not?
Am I crazier than other patients?
Right, I've done everything right
So where's the karma, Doc? I've lost my patience

[Chorus: Jack Met]
'Cause I've been so good
I've been working my ass off
I've been so good
Still, I'm lonely and stressed out
I've been so good
I've been so good this year
And I've been so good
But it's still getting harder
I've been so good
Where the hell is the karma?
I've been so good
I've been so good this year

[Bridge: Jack Met]
Ah, ah, ah
Ah, ah, ah
I've been so good this year
I've been so good this year
[Outro: Jack Met]
Time, I know we're out of time
But what if sad thoughts come and I can't stop it?
Bye, I don't wanna say bye
If only I could keep you in my pocket
To give me some diagnosis of why I'm so hollow
Please give me instructions, I promise I'll follow
I tripped on my ankle and fractured my elbow
But doesn't that mean that the tour's gonna sell, though?
I try to explain the good faith that's been wasted
But after an hour, it sounds like complaining
Wait, don't go away, can I lie here forever?
You say that I'm better, why don't I feel better?
The universe works in mysterious ways
But I'm starting to think it ain't working for me
Doctor, should I be good, should I be good this year?

The American indie pop band AJR has once again hit a home run with their single, “Karma.” The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist Jack Met, and it is the first track from their latest album. With its catchy tune and thought-provoking lyrics, it has quickly become a fan favorite, and a go-to for those seeking meaningful, yet upbeat music.

About Karma

“Karma” is a song that deeply reflects the beliefs of AJR’s lead vocalist, Jack Met. In an Instagram live-stream, he asserted that the song is his vision, that fully embodies his thoughts and feelings about the topic. It was also the very first track the band wrote for the album, indicating that this is a paramount piece of art for AJR.

The song delves into a theory called karma, which is based on the belief that our actions have consequences and will determine our fate. The law of moral causation is a significant principle in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. According to this theory, every good or bad deed a person does will have an impact on their future experiences. In the track, Jack Met appears to question the validity of karma as he asks his therapist why his good deeds are not returned to him. The lyrics thus suggest that while karma is a widely embraced philosophy among many, its principles may not be as simple as they seem.

The lyrics of “Karma” are packed with metaphors that explore the concept of actions having consequences. The catchy tune is built around a template of clapping and trumpet, which gives the track a uniquely upbeat and celebratory feel. The song’s lyrics explore a variety of themes, including accountability, purpose, and destiny. The song implies that one cannot predict the outcomes of every action they take, and sometimes their choices do not lead to the desired effects.

Listening to “Karma” is a raw and relatable experience that captures the very human experience of seeking validation and fairness in our actions. The lyrics feature language that suggests Jack Met feels he’s constantly and intentionally doing good for others but wonders what the results would be if he stopped. The song also includes nostalgic pop culture references like Johnny Bravo, making the piece more relatable to younger generations.

The song's video is a work of art itself, with its clever use of imagery and color. The video opens with a scene of Jack playing in front of a crowd, and then it transitions into a montage of surreal and symbolic vignettes that explore the theme of karma. The video features a host of actors and metaphoric concepts like a cycle of good deeds returning after some period, and the lead singer walking endlessly along a path- highlighting the true nature of life. The video then ends with Jack reaching the end of his journey and, instead of finding some kind of reward or enlightenment, he ultimately discovers that what he sought was the journey itself.

Undoubtedly, the thought-provoking and empathetic nature of “Karma” makes it one of the best songs from AJR. As always, their ability to produce music that is relatable and resonates with the listener is unmatched. With its metaphoric lyrics and catchy tune, “Karma” symbolizes the importance of accountability, purpose, and destiny. Whether you’re a fan of pop, indie, or rock, the song will surely strike a chord with you, and you will find yourself humming its tune long after it’s over.

• Release Date: April 26, 2019
• Artist: AJR