Vance Joys Riptide: A Song of Fear, Love, and Dreams

Introduction

Vance Joy’s Riptide is a song that has captivated millions of listeners around the world with its catchy melody and honest lyrics. Released in 2013, as the intro and first single to is debut EP God Loves You When You’re Dancing, this indie folk tune became a global hit, reaching the top charts in several countries and receiving numerous covers and adaptations. But what is the meaning behind the song’s words, and why do they resonate with so many people? In this article, we’ll explore the genesis, lyrics, and impact of Riptide by Vance Joy.

The Genesis of Riptide

Riptide was not a song that came out of nowhere. It was the result of a slow and gradual process that spanned over four years. Vance Joy, whose real name is James Keogh, started writing the song in 2008, when he came up with the first two lines and the chords for the verse. However, he did not have a clear vision of where the song was going, so he put it aside for a while.

In 2012, he revisited the song and had a moment of inspiration. He picked up a ukulele and played a melody that became the instrumental bridge, and that led him to write the melody for the chorus. He then wrote the rest of the lyrics in a stream of consciousness, without worrying too much about making sense or being coherent. He just let the words flow out of his fingertips, drawing from his personal experiences and memories.

Unpacking the Lyrics

Verse 1: Childhood Fears and Dreams

“I was scared of dentists and the dark I was scared of pretty girls and starting conversations”

The song begins with a confession of vulnerability and relatability. Joy shares some of his childhood fears, such as dentists and the dark, which are common among many people. He also reveals his shyness and insecurity around pretty girls and social situations, which reflect his adolescent struggles.

Chorus: The Riptide Metaphor

“Lady, running down to the riptide Taken away to the dark side I wanna be your left hand man”

The chorus introduces the main metaphor of the song: the riptide. A riptide is a strong sea current that can pull a person away from the shore and into the deep water. Joy uses this image to symbolise the unpredictable and often overwhelming nature of life and love. He sings to a lady, whom he met in real life and who was a magician’s assistant, and expresses his desire to be with her, despite the risks and uncertainties. He wants to be her “left hand man”, which could mean he wants to be her partner, her supporter, or her protector.

Verse 2: Cinematic References and Escapism

“There’s this movie that I think you’ll like This guy decides to quit his job and heads to New York City”

The second verse is based on Joy’s recollection of the movie Midnight Cowboy (1969), which he watched a few years before writing the song. The movie is about a man who leaves his small town and moves to New York City to become a male prostitute, but faces many hardships and challenges along the way. Joy uses this reference to convey his own sense of escapism and aspiration, as well as to relate to the lady he is singing to, who may share his dreams or his wanderlust.

Bridge: Seeking Assurance

“I just wanna, I just wanna know If you’re gonna, if you’re gonna stay”

The bridge conveys a moment of doubt and insecurity in the relationship. Joy asks the lady if she is going to stay with him or if she is going to leave him behind. He needs to know if she is committed to him or if she is just playing with his feelings. He expresses his need for reassurance and clarity, which is something that many listeners can empathise with.

The Impact of Riptide

Chart Success and Cultural Impact Riptide achieved remarkable chart success, but its impact goes beyond numbers. It resonated with listeners due to its authentic lyrics and Joy’s sincere delivery. The song’s ability to connect with a wide audience is evident in its numerous covers and adaptations, including one by Taylor Swift, who praised the song and invited Joy to join her on her 1989 World Tour. On June 11, 2020, the RIAA certified Riptide as 6x platinum, Vance Joy’s highest certification to date.

The Role of Pop Culture

The song’s references to pop culture, like Michelle Pfeiffer, add a layer of familiarity and nostalgia. These nods to well-known figures and stories create a link between the listener’s experience and the song’s themes. They also show Joy’s influences and inspirations, as well as his playful and creative use of language.

Vance Joy God Loves You When You're Dancing album cover — Vance Joy God Loves You When You’re Dancing album cover

Conclusion

Riptide by Vance Joy is a song that combines personal narrative, universal themes, and cultural references. Its lyrics are a reflection of fear, love, aspiration, and the human condition, making it a song that continues to touch and inspire audiences around the world.

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Vance Joy Riptide Lyrics

Verse 1
I was scared of dentists and the dark
I was scared of pretty girls and starting conversations
Oh, all my friends are turnin’ green
You’re the magician’s assistant in their dream

Pre-Chorus
Oh-ooh, oh-oh
And they come unstuck

Chorus
Lady, runnin’ down to the riptide
Taken away to the dark side
I wanna be your left hand man
I love you when you’re singin’ that song and
I got a lump in my throat ’cause
You’re gonna sing the words wrong

Verse 2
There’s this movie that I think you’ll like
This guy decides to quit his job and heads to New York City
This cowboy’s runnin’ from himself
And she’s been livin’ on the highest shelf

Pre-Chorus
Oh-ooh, oh-oh
And they come unstuck

Bridge
I just wanna, I just wanna know
If you’re gonna, if you’re gonna stay
I just gotta, I just gotta know
I can’t have it, I can’t have it any other way
I swear she’s destined for the screen
Closest thing to Michelle Pfeiffer that you’ve ever seen, oh

Pre-Chorus
Lady, runnin’ down to the riptide
Taken away to the dark side
I wanna be your left hand man
I love you, when you’re singin’ that song and
I got a lump in my throat ’cause
You’re gonna sing the words wrong

Chorus
Oh lady, runnin’ down to the riptide
Taken away to the dark side
I wanna be your left hand man
I love you when you’re singin’ that song and
I got a lump in my throat ’cause
You’re gonna sing the words wrong
Oh lady, runnin’ down to the riptide
Taken away to the dark side
I wanna be your left hand man
I love you when you’re singin’ that song and
I got a lump in my throat ’cause
You’re gonna sing the words wrong, yeah
I got a lump in my throat ’cause
You’re gonna sing the words wrong