Michael Buble - Hollywood Lyrics
Lyrics
Could you be a teenage idol?
Could you be a movie star??
When l turn on my TV
Will you smile and wave at me telling Oprah who you are?
So you want to be a rock star
With blue eyed bunnies in your bed
Well remember when you're rich that you sold yourself for this, you'll be famous 'cause you're dead
Chorus
So don't go higher for desire
Put it in your head, baby
Hollywood is dead you can find it in yourself
I don't want to take you dancing
When you're dancing with the world
Well you can flash your caviar and your million dollar car
I don't need that kind of girl
But you could be that next sensation or will you set the latest style
You don't need a catchy song
'Cause the kids will sing along
When you shoot it with a smile
Chorus
So don't go higher for desire
Put it in your head, baby
Hollywood is dead you can find it in yourself.
So don't fly higher for your fire
Put it in your head, baby
Hollywood is dead you can find it in yourself.
Keep it on your head: Hollywood is dead
Well you can do the mighty tango
You can start your little thing
You can swing from vine to vine
While the kiddies wait in line
With the money in their hands
But if you get to California
Save a piece of gold for me
If it's the only thing you save
Then I'll bet you'll never wave when I watch you on TV
Chorus
So don't go higher for desire
Put it in your head, baby
Hollywood is dead you can find it in yourself
So don't fly higher for your fire
Put it in your head, baby
Hollywood is dead you can find it in yourself
Keep on loving what is true and the world will come to you, you can find it in yourself
Love what is true and the world will come to you, you can find it in yourself
No no no no no
Keep it in your head: Hollywood is dead
Come come Hollywood is dead, babe, woo hoo
Oh Hollywood is dead yeah yeah
Keep on loving what is true and the world will come to you, you can find it in yourself
Get it in your head: Hollywood is dead
Video
Michael Bublé - Hollywood [Official Music Video]
Meaning & Inspiration
Michael Bublé's "Hollywood," released on September 28, 2010, delves into the allure and pervasive influence of the entertainment industry, particularly the titular city, and the human yearning for acceptance and recognition that it often embodies. While not a song with overt religious themes, its exploration of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of external validation can be viewed through a spiritual lens, prompting reflection on where we place our ultimate trust and the source of our worth. The song captures a common modern aspiration, a desire to be seen, admired, and to achieve a level of significance that Hollywood, in its idealized form, seems to promise. This resonates with the biblical narrative of human desire for greatness, as seen in the Tower of Babel story (Genesis 11:1-9), where humanity sought to make a name for themselves, an ambition that ultimately led to confusion and scattering.
"Hollywood" touches upon the idea of crafting an image, of presenting a curated version of oneself to the world. This mirrors the temptation to build our lives on shifting sands, seeking validation from fleeting public opinion rather than the unshakeable foundation of divine love. The scriptures often caution against this very human tendency. Proverbs 27:2 reminds us, "Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips." This speaks to the hollowness of self-promotion and the preference for genuine, external affirmation that is earned through character and action, not manufactured. The song’s imagery of seeking a spotlight can be contrasted with the wisdom found in Matthew 5:16, where Jesus instructs his followers, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Here, the emphasis is not on personal acclaim, but on allowing one's actions, guided by faith, to draw attention to the divine source of that goodness.
Furthermore, the song’s portrayal of striving for a particular kind of success can lead to introspection about our true aspirations. Are we pursuing goals that ultimately fulfill our deepest needs, or are we chasing after shadows, seeking a counterfeit happiness in worldly achievements? The pursuit of fame and fortune, as often depicted in the Hollywood narrative, can distract from cultivating inner peace and contentment. The Apostle Paul’s encouragement in Philippians 4:11-13 offers a powerful counterpoint: "I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." This highlights that true satisfaction is not dependent on external circumstances or the approval of others, but on a resilient spirit anchored in a spiritual reality.
In essence, "Hollywood" serves as a contemporary soundtrack to an age-old human struggle: the quest for meaning and belonging in a world that often commodifies attention. It prompts us to consider the true nature of our desires and to seek a worth that is intrinsic and divinely bestowed, rather than one that is earned through fleeting accolades. The song’s exploration, though secular in its origin, can inspire a deeper examination of our priorities and a recommitment to building our lives on principles that transcend the transient glow of worldly recognition, ultimately directing our gaze towards enduring truths.