Meaning and Lyrics of Turning Out by AJR

Song Lyrics meaning of Turning Out by AJR

About AJR

AJR is an eclectic American indie pop trio composed of three multi-talented brothers: Adam, Jack, and Ryan Met. The band’s quirky name is derived from the initials of their first names, a testament to their tight-knit familial bond and collaborative spirit. Known for their DIY ethos and genre-blending sound, AJR rose from humble beginnings busking in New York City parks to achieving mainstream success. Formation and Early Years
Adam, Jack, and Ryan began their musical journey in the early 2000s, honing their skills and crafting their unique blend of electronic, pop, and baroque influences. The brothers took a hands-on approach to their music, recording and producing their tracks in their living room. This grassroots methodology allowed them to retain full creative control—a rare commodity in the music industry. Breakthrough and Success
AJR’s big break came in 2013 with their single “I’m Ready,” which garnered widespread attention thanks to its infectious melody and clever incorporation of a Spongebob Squarepants sample. This track laid the groundwork for subsequent hits and a growing fanbase. The band’s albums, including *The Click,* *Neotheater,* and *OK Orchestra,* received critical and commercial acclaim, further solidifying their status in the indie pop arena. Artistic Vision
AJR’s music is characterized by its experimental and emotionally resonant nature. Their lyrics often delve into themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the trials of growing up. The trio’s innovative use of technology and heartfelt storytelling has set them apart from the cookie-cutter pop acts of today. Iconic Tracks
One standout track from AJR’s dynamic discography is “Turning Out,” a contemplative ballad from their album *The Click*. The song navigates the complexities of love and self-identity with poignant lyrics and an ethereal soundscape, showcasing the band’s ability to balance introspection with mainstream appeal. AJR continues to push the boundaries of modern pop, proving that familial synergy and inventive artistry can indeed capture the hearts of a global audience.

Meaning of Turning Out by AJR

“Turning Out” by AJR delves into a deep exploration of self-doubt, uncertainty, and the complexities of love and growing up. The lyrics express a sense of confusion and bewilderment as the protagonist grapples with their perceptions of love and their own personal growth.

The first verse highlights a closeness that the protagonist feels for someone, yet they confess to being confused about recognizing true love. This confusion is further emphasized in the pre-chorus where the protagonist questions whether they are ready for love or if they are merely seeking a best friend, pondering the distinction and contemplating societal influences on their perception of relationships.

In the chorus, the repetition of “You say I turned out fine, I think I’m still turning out” captures the essence of ongoing self-discovery and personal evolution. The protagonist acknowledges external validation but remains uncertain about their development and place in the world.

The second verse delves into the disparity between the protagonist’s expectations of love – where they anticipated grand gestures and romance – and the stark reality of silence and questioning their own intentions. This discrepancy contributes to their self-reflection and introspection.

The bridge introduces a poignant comparison between the protagonist and a child, symbolizing innocence and vulnerability. The repetition of the line “Don’t you go and grow up before I do” conveys a fear of being left behind or outgrown, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and support in navigating life’s uncertainties.

The outro, echoing the sentiment of “I’m still turning out,” encapsulates the ongoing journey of self-discovery, embracing vulnerabilities, doubts, and the process of maturation. The song ultimately reflects on the need for companionship and guidance, seeking reassurance and acceptance while navigating the complexities of growth and identity.

Lyrics of Turning Out by AJR

Verse 1: Jack Met
I hold you
I hold you closer than I ever knew
I could do
But I'm confused
I thought I'd recognize when love was true
But I'm confused

Pre-Chorus: Jack Met
Am I ready for love?
Or maybe just a best friend
Should there be a difference?
Do you have instructions?
Maybe I'm stuck on what I see on TV
I grew up on Disney
But this don't feel like Disney

Chorus: Jack Met
You say I turned out fine
I think I'm still turning out
You say I turned out fine
I think I'm still turning out
I think I'm still turning out

Verse 2: Jack Met
In my mind
I thought the birds would sing and sparks would fly
But it's just quiet
Am I cruel?
Or am I ignorant or was I fooled
By the stories I knew

Pre-Chorus: Jack Met
Am I ready for love?
Or maybe just a best friend
Should there be a difference?
Do you have instructions?
Maybe I'm stuck on what I see on TV
I grew up on Disney
But this don't feel like Disney

Chorus: Jack Met
You say I turned out fine
I think I'm still turning out
You say I turned out fine
I think I'm still turning out
I hope you stick around
We're gonna figure it out
Who can I turn to now?
When I'm still turning out
When I'm still turning out

Bridge: Jack Met
I'm a little kid, and so are you
Don't you go and grow up before I do
I'm a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I'm a little kid, and so are you
Don't you go and grow up before I do
I'm a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I'm a little kid, and so are you
Don't you go and grow up before I do
I'm a little kid with so much doubt
Do you wanna be there to see how I turn out?
I'm a little kid, and so are you
Don't you go and grow up before I do
I'm a little kid with so much doubt
Do you want to be there to see how I turn out?

Outro: Jack Met
'Cause I'm still turning out

Discography AJR

The Maybe Man

Release: 2023-11-10
Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. Maybe Man
2. Touchy Feely Fool
3. Yes I’m A Mess
4. The Dumb Song
5. Inertia
6. Turning Out Pt. iii
7. Hole in the Bottom of My Brain
8. The DJ is Crying for Help
9. I Won’t
10. Steve’s Going to London
11. God is Really Real
12. 2085
Tracklist Collapse

OK ORCHESTRA

Release: 2021-03-26
Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. OK Overture
2. Bummerland
3. 3 O’Clock Things
4. My Play
5. Joe
6. Adventure Is Out There
7. Bang!
8. The Trick
9. Ordinaryish People (feat. Blue Man Group)
10. Humpty Dumpty
11. World’s Smallest Violin
12. Way Less Sad
13. Christmas in June
Tracklist Collapse

Neotheater

Release: 2019-04-26
Label: Black Butter
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. Next Up Forever
2. Birthday Party
3. 100 Bad Days
4. Don’t Throw Out My Legos
5. Break My Face
6. Turning Out Pt. II
7. The Entertainment’s Here
8. Karma
9. Beats
10. Wow, I’m Not Crazy
11. Dear Winter
12. Finale (Can’t Wait To See What You Do Next)</a
Tracklist Collapse

Upcoming Events for AJR

AJR - The Maybe Man Tour

Price Range: $54.5 – 149.5
Date: 2024-06-29
Location: Allstate Arena

AJR - The Maybe Man Tour

Price Range: $30.75 – 123.25
Date: 2024-06-25
Location: PPG Paints Arena

AJR - The Maybe Man Tour

Price Range: $49.5 – 149.5
Date: 2024-06-30
Location: Little Caesars Arena
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The Maybe Man

Release: 2023-11-10
Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. Maybe Man
2. Touchy Feely Fool
3. Yes I’m A Mess
4. The Dumb Song
5. Inertia
6. Turning Out Pt. iii
7. Hole in the Bottom of My Brain
8. The DJ is Crying for Help
9. I Won’t
10. Steve’s Going to London
11. God is Really Real
12. 2085
Tracklist Collapse

OK ORCHESTRA

Release: 2021-03-26
Label: Mercury Records / Republic Records
Popularity: 👏👏👏
1. OK Overture
2. Bummerland
3. 3 O’Clock Things
4. My Play
5. Joe
6. Adventure Is Out There
7. Bang!
8. The Trick
9. Ordinaryish People (feat. Blue Man Group)
10. Humpty Dumpty
11. World’s Smallest Violin
12. Way Less Sad
13. Christmas in June
Tracklist Collapse

Neotheater

Release: 2019-04-26
Label: Black Butter
Popularity: 👏👏
1. Next Up Forever
2. Birthday Party
3. 100 Bad Days
4. Don’t Throw Out My Legos
5. Break My Face
6. Turning Out Pt. II
7. The Entertainment’s Here
8. Karma
9. Beats
10. Wow, I’m Not Crazy
11. Dear Winter
12. Finale (Can’t Wait To See What You Do Next)</a
Tracklist Collapse
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