Everclear

Lyrics

1 ContributorJackie Robinson LyricsOoh, oh
Ooh, oh

Luther Jackson Green
Lived in the apartment above me
We smoked cigarettes on the stairs
Tell me stories that the white boys never hear

Like when he found this sign
He moved North in 1949
On his tenth birthday
Daddy took him to town to the Jackie Robinson play

It was a picture perfect day
In the sunshine and the hate
He didn't understand
Why all those people would say such awful things

His daddy said pay no attention to them
Turnaround and watch the man play
The one black man in the baseball field
Was better in every way

My daddy said if you wanna win in this world
You gotta beat 'em at their own game
See Everclear LiveGet tickets as low as $46You might also likeLuther Jackson Green
Went to law school in 1963
In the summer between
He worked in Alabama with Martin Luther King

He met a girl on a summer night
Fell hard when they saw each other's eyes
There were people in town that really didn't like
That he was black and she was white

They found her in the ditch
A little outside of town
Some stupid man was blastin about it
So Luther beat him down

He looked him in the eye
Spit in his face and turned and walked away

He knew he was better than all the hate
He knew he was bigger than all the pain
He knew that there's a time to fight
And a time to walk away
He knew until he changed the rules
Oh yeah, they beat em at their own game

He never did lose that feeling inside
You could hear it in his voice
You could see it in his eyes
Luther moved out West to live
When his wife passed away
He lives right next door to his son
So he can watch his grandchild play

Luther Jackson Green
Watched election night with me
We put a black man in the White House
A thing he never thought he'd see

Even though he never cried
I could see tears in his eyes
He had dreamed about this moment
Every single day of his life

Yeah Luther died that night in his sleep
But he lived long enough to see
America become the kind of place
He always wanted it to be

He said you could never forget the day
That we beat 'em at their own game
Yeah just like Jackie Robinson
Just like Jackie Robinson

Gotta be bigger than all the hate (just like Jackie Robinson)
Gotta be better than all the pain (just like Jackie Robinson)
Oh, gotta find a better way (just like Jackie Robinson)
Oh, gotta beat em at their own game (just like Jackie Robinson)
Oh, gotta beat em at the wrong game (just like Jackie Robinson)
Oh, gotta beat em at the wrong game (just like Jackie Robinson)
(Just like Jackie Robinson)Embed

Are you ready for a musical journey that delves deep into the realms of powerful storytelling and raw emotions? Look no further than "Jackie Robinson" by Everclear. This captivating song takes us on a poignant exploration of personal struggles, sacrifices, and the pursuit of dreams. With its compelling lyrics, soaring melodies, and the unmistakable signature sound of Everclear, "Jackie Robinson" is a must-listen for any music enthusiast seeking an immersive experience.

About Jackie Robinson

Released in 1997 as part of Everclear's acclaimed album "So Much for the Afterglow," "Jackie Robinson" immediately made an impact on both the alternative rock scene and mainstream listeners alike. Written by the band's frontman, Art Alexakis, the song is a tribute to the legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball.

But "Jackie Robinson" is more than just a song about baseball. It delves into the themes of resilience, determination, and the courage to challenge the status quo. Through its poignant lyrics and powerful instrumentation, the song encapsulates the struggles faced by not only Jackie Robinson but also anyone fighting against adversity and discrimination.

From the moment the song begins, the listener is enveloped in its atmospheric and introspective sound. The intricate guitar work, coupled with the driving rhythm section, creates a sonic landscape that perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, reflecting the battle against prejudice and the soaring triumph of breaking barriers.

Art Alexakis delivers a heartfelt and impassioned vocal performance, infusing every word with a sense of urgency and personal connection. The lyrics themselves serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams, with lines like "I'm Jackie Robinson, I'm Jackie Robinson, I'm Jackie Robinson, I'm Jackie Robinson. I'm still running." These words resonate deep within the listener, inspiring them to keep pushing forward in their own lives.

One of the key strengths of "Jackie Robinson" lies in its ability to connect with a universal audience. While rooted in the historical significance of Jackie Robinson's achievements, the song's underlying message of overcoming obstacles transcends time and place. It becomes a rallying cry for anyone who has ever felt oppressed, marginalized, or held back in pursuit of their goals.

Everclear's "Jackie Robinson" is a testament to the transformative power of music. It serves as a reminder of the impact one person can make on the world, both on and off the field. Through its masterful composition and emotionally charged performance, this song continues to resonate with listeners, offering solace, inspiration, and a call to action.

So, sit back, turn up the volume, and allow "Jackie Robinson" to take you on a musical journey that will awaken your senses, stir your soul, and leave you with a renewed sense of determination to face any challenge that comes your way.

• Release Date: None
• Artist: Everclear