P.O.D.

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I am the murderer, the pervert, sick to the core
I am the unclean dope fiend, I am the whore
I am the beat down, mistreated, sexually abused
I have violated, fornicated, and sexually used
I am the con artist, cold hearted, smooth preacher
Cash stealer, emotion bleeder, the soul leecher
Feed off the poor, but I'm a slave to the rich
I'm in depression so this reflection is making me sick

[Chorus]
Are you the one that's come to set me free?
Cause if you knew who I am, would you really wanna die for me?
They say you are the cursed man, the one who hangs from this tree
But I know this is the one and only son of god, so tell me, who the fuck is he?

[Verse 2]
I am fake, fraud, phony, I'm a known liar
Anorexic, rejected object of your desire
Suicidal thoughts keep one in the chamber
I'm a turned out streetwalking heroin banger
I am a secret cutter, porn lover, the town drunkard
Next door, neighborhood slut, I'm somebody's mother
Outcasted, arrogant, bastard son
I'm the talk of the town but this story has just begun
[Chorus]
Are you the one that's come to set me free?
Cause if you knew who I am, would you really wanna die for me?
They say you are the cursed man, the one who hangs from this tree
But I know you are the one and only son of god, but tell me, who the fuck is he?

[Post-Chorus]
So tell me
So tell me!

[Bridge]
And now it's spreading like a deadly disease
And now it's spreading like a deadly disease
And now it's spreading like a deadly disease
But I won't let you bury me!
Woo!

[Verse 3]
I am
I am what you've reaped, I am what you've sewed
I am that guy talking to himself, I am alone
I'm the forgotten child, ravaged and raped through sex traffic
Since I'm a little strange, my daddy called me a faggot
I am insecure, immature, even I disgust me
In denial, pill poppin', prescription junkie
[Chorus]
Are you the one that's come to set me free?
Cause if you knew who I am, would you really wanna die for me?
They say you are the cursed man, the one who hangs from this tree
But I know you are the one and only son of god, but tell me, who the fuck is he?

[Post-Chorus]
So tell me

[Outro]
I see demons, eyes bleeding, my soul impure
Already know that I'm diseased, but tell me what's the cure?
This is me, we are him, and I am you
Old things pass away and all becomes new
This is me, we are him, and I am you
Old things pass away and all becomes new
This is me, we are him, and I am you
Old things pass away and all becomes newEmbed

If there's one song that manages to capture the essence of inner turmoil and the desperate search for meaning, it's "I Am" by P.O.D. This powerful track takes listeners on a journey through the experiences of a lost and tortured soul, longing for something greater. With thought-provoking lyrics and a raw intensity, the band delves into the struggles, vices, and ultimate quest for redemption.

In "I Am," the narrator, the talented Sonny Sandoval, bravely confronts his demons and openly addresses the challenges he faces. The poignant chorus turns towards Jesus, as the narrator questions whether the Son of God truly understands the depth of his own pain and if he would truly sacrifice his life for him.

It's worth noting that "I Am" caused a stir within the Christian community due to its use of profanity. This controversy resulted in some versions of the song being censored or, in extreme cases, completely removed from certain releases. Yet, Sonny Sandoval himself has shed light on this decision, expressing that he left the words in because they fully encapsulated the emotional state he was in whilst writing this passionate anthem.

About I Am

"I Am" is a profound reflection of the human struggle and existential questioning that many of us face at some point in our lives. P.O.D., short for Payable on Death, has been an influential force in the alternative rock and nu-metal scene for decades, known for their unique blend of faith-based lyrics and heavy guitar riffs.

Right from the opening notes, "I Am" grips the listener with its intense energy and emotional depth. The song perfectly captures the frustration, confusion, and longing for purpose that often accompanies personal struggles. As the narrator reckons with various vices and hardships, the listener is drawn into a world of self-reflection and examination.

What truly sets "I Am" apart is its visceral chorus, where the narrator pleads with Jesus to understand the true essence of his being. In this moment, the song transcends its individual experiences and touches on the universal human desire for acceptance and understanding. The vulnerability and honesty laced throughout the lyrics resonate deeply, inviting listeners to explore their own journey of self-discovery.

Despite the controversy surrounding the song's language, its impact remains undeniable. "I Am" remains an important testament to the power of music in expressing the full range of human emotions, even those deemed taboo by some communities. P.O.D. fearlessly pushes boundaries, using their platform to illuminate the realities of pain, doubt, and faith.

With its thematic depth and compelling sound, "I Am" showcases the musical prowess of P.O.D. Drawing from their extensive experience in the industry, the band skillfully blends rock, metal, and alternative influences to create a hard-hitting yet melodic masterpiece. The raw intensity of the instrumentals perfectly complements the evocative lyricism.

Over the years, P.O.D. has consistently delivered music that challenges listeners and sparks a sense of introspection. "I Am" stands as a testament to their commitment to creating thought-provoking and emotionally charged songs that resonate with a diverse audience.

As the listener immerses themselves in the gripping journey of "I Am," they are presented with an opportunity for self-reflection. The song confronts the listener with powerful questions: Who are we at our core? What battles do we face in our quest for meaning? And, most importantly, do we truly understand the depth of our own struggles?

Ultimately, "I Am" is far more than just a song. It represents the human experience in its entirety—the highs and lows, the doubts and certainties, the searching and the finding. P.O.D.'s ability to capture this complex tapestry of emotions in a single track is a testament to their artistry and vision.

So, if you're searching for a song that dives deep into the complexities of the human soul and stirs emotions you might not even realize are buried within, look no further than P.O.D.'s "I Am." Let its hypnotic melodies and introspective lyrics guide you on a journey of self-discovery and remind you of the universal struggle we all face as we navigate the highs and lows of life.

• Release Date: July 10, 2012
• Artist: P.O.D.