NF - Breathe Lyrics
Lyrics
Hook
Breathe
Breathe
Verse 1
I grew up in a small place, had to drive an hour just to see a movie
I'm a simple person, city life just doesn't move me
I'd rather be home with my grandparents and playing Euchre
Didn't wanna leave but this dream's calling, I had to do it
I left my girl there, wish I would've done it different
She was right when she told me that I don't ever listen
I told her I would change a million times and never did it
Apologies don't mean a thing if you don't ever fix it
I love what I do but it's not what I expected
This industry is not your friend, well it's my perspective
Sometimes the closest people to you make you feel protected
But those are the same people that hurt you most and leave you guessing
Some people say nobody's perfect but expect perfection
How you supposed to find the answer if you don't ask the question?
Sometimes I look into the mirror and talk to my reflection
When I go home and turn the music off, what am I left with?
Hook
Breathe
Breathe
Verse 2
We used to be close but it's time past, we became disconnected
You never felt love and I always felt disrespected
Your family thought I was a joke, I was always defensive
They just wanted what was best for you, I just couldn't accept it
And hurting you was not a part of my plan or my intentions
But I was immature, I guess I had to learn some lessons
We grew apart and our lives went in different directions
And there's a lot of responsibilities that I neglected
I had a lot that was bottled inside, couldn't express it
And this pain won't leave, I can feel the depression
It's taking over my body, feels like I'm always stressing
Doctor told me I should sleep, but I'm always restless
I lay awake at night and think, my thoughts are relentless
I need a moment to breathe, I need a moment to vent this
I seem to be the only person that I play pretend with
And when I turn the music off, what am I really left with huh?
Hook
Breathe
Breathe
Video
NF - Breathe (Audio)
Meaning & Inspiration
NF's track "Breathe," released on April 22, 2016, dives deep into the raw, often isolating experience of grappling with personal struggles and the weight of expectations, offering a cathartic release for those navigating similar challenges. The song's narrative unfolds through NF's reflections on his upbringing, the sacrifices made for his passion, and the inevitable collateral damage that can accompany such a pursuit. He recounts leaving a significant relationship, acknowledging his shortcomings in communication and his inability to follow through on promises, a poignant reminder of the gap between intent and action. This introspective verse touches on the disillusionment that can arise in the music industry, where perceived support can turn into a source of pain, and the universal human experience of being hurt by those closest to us. The recurring question, "When I go home and turn the music off, what am I left with?" highlights a profound search for identity beyond the public persona, a quest for peace and self-understanding amidst the noise.
The second verse intensifies this exploration, detailing the painful dissolution of a relationship marked by misunderstanding and a sense of disrespect. NF grapples with the perception his partner's family held of him and his own defensive reaction to their disapproval, recognizing in hindsight that their concerns stemmed from a desire for their loved one's well-being, a lesson learned through difficult experience. He admits to immaturity and neglected responsibilities, revealing the immense burden of unexpressed emotions and the oppressive nature of depression and relentless stress. The doctor's advice to sleep contrasts sharply with his restless nights, filled with an unyielding stream of thoughts, painting a vivid picture of internal turmoil. The repeated desire to simply "Breathe" becomes a desperate plea for respite, a moment to release the pent-up pain and frustration, underscoring the internal conflict of performing authenticity while feeling disconnected from one's true self. This yearning for genuine self-expression and relief resonates with the biblical call for rest and reliance on a higher power during times of trial, as seen in Matthew 11:28, where Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Furthermore, the struggle with inner demons and the feeling of isolation echo the psalmist's cries for help in Psalm 13:1-2: "How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and each day with grief in my heart?" NF’s raw honesty in admitting his pain and the need for a moment to simply breathe speaks to the vulnerability that can lead to healing, mirroring the biblical encouragement to confess our faults one to another, that we may be healed (James 5:16). The song, through its candid portrayal of struggle, ultimately offers a powerful testament to the human need for release and the quiet strength found in confronting one's inner landscape, a journey that, when approached with honesty, can lead to a profound sense of peace and renewal.