Verse 1
I know you feel like you're so unworthy
Been cut so deep, you can't see the beauty
You've been caught up in a lie that tells you
Your only good is what your body can do
Well you're not, too far gone
Pre-Chorus 1
'Cause the Maker of the stars
You don't make mistakes, He just make art
Don't you go and paint over your scar-ar-ar
Chorus
Remember who you are, ar-are
Remember who you are, ar-are
You're more than what they say
You're beautiful and brave
Remember who you are, ar-are, ar-are… ar-are
Remember who you are
Verse 2
They say don't speak so you scream in silence
The words that you really mean are the answer? fighting
There's never been a door the truth can't break down
There's never been a leap? that love can't tame now
So show them who you are, ar-are, ar-are-ar-are
Pre-Chorus 1
'Cause the Maker of the stars
He don't make mistakes, He just make art
Don't you go and paint over your scar-ar-ar
Chorus
Remember who you are, ar-are
Remember who you are, ar-are
You're more than what they say
You're beautiful and brave
Remember who you are, ar-are, ar-are… ar-are
Remember who you are
Remember who you are (hey!)
Remember who you are
Pre-Chorus 2
'Cause you know the Maker of the stars
He don't make mistakes, He just make art
Don't you go and paint over your scar-ar--ar-ar-ar-ar
Chorus
Remember who you are, ar-are
Remember who you are, ar-are
You're more than what they say
You're beautiful and brave
Remember who you are, ar-are, ar-are… ar-are
Riley Clemmons - Remember (Official Lyric Video)
Remember Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Riley Clemmons' song "Remember" delivers a powerful message of inherent worth and identity, addressing the listener directly with empathy. The lyrics begin by acknowledging feelings of unworthiness and deep hurt, suggesting that external pressures or internal struggles can obscure one's perception of their own beauty. It highlights the harmful influence of lies that tie value solely to physical capabilities or outward appearance, asserting clearly that despite these feelings, the individual is not "too far gone." This opening sets a compassionate tone, creating a space for the listener to feel understood in their struggle with self-perception.
The song introduces a significant perspective shift in the pre-chorus by referencing the "Maker of the stars." This phrase immediately elevates the discussion to a divine context, framing the individual not as a product of chance or flaw, but as intentional creation. The lyrics state emphatically that the Maker "don't make mistakes, He just make art," presenting a foundational truth that one's existence is inherently valuable and purposeful. The instruction "Don't you go and paint over your scar" reinforces the idea that experiences, including painful ones represented by scars, are part of the unique masterpiece and should not be hidden or erased, but accepted as part of one's story and identity.
The central theme is crystallized in the chorus: "Remember who you are." This is a direct call to introspection and reclamation of self, asserting that true identity lies beyond external opinions or negative self-talk. The chorus declares, "You're more than what they say," emphasizing that external validation does not define worth. It describes the individual as "beautiful and brave," qualities inherent regardless of circumstances or how one feels. The repetition of "Remember who you are" serves as a strong, insistent anchor throughout the song, designed to implant this truth firmly in the listener's mind.
Verse two delves into the challenges of external pressure to remain silent and the internal struggle of expressing oneself authentically. It speaks to the tension between suppressing truth and the innate desire to scream it out. The lyrics present truth as a force that can overcome barriers ("never been a door the truth can't break down") and love as a power that can tame difficulties ("never been a leap that love can't tame now"). This verse culminates in a call to action: "So show them who you are," encouraging the listener to live out their true, divinely created identity openly, despite opposition.
The message of "Remember" resonates with themes found in various scripture references that speak to divine creation, inherent value, and identity. For example, the concept of being intentionally made and valued by a Creator aligns with passages like Psalm 139:14, which speaks of being "fearfully and wonderfully made," and Genesis 1:27, stating humanity was created in the image of God. The idea that one's future and identity are secure in divine intention echoes themes in Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks of plans for hope and a future. Furthermore, the song's encouragement to embrace one's true self and not be defined by external negativity or past wounds connects with the assurance of God's unwavering love found in Romans 8:38-39, which promises that nothing can separate one from that love.
The official lyric video for "Remember" was released on October 5, 2018. The visual format of a lyric video helps emphasize the powerful words and their intended message, allowing viewers to connect directly with the text as they listen. The presentation of the lyrics reinforces the song's role as an anthem of self-acceptance and spiritual identity, encouraging listeners to internalize the message of their inherent worth and beauty as defined by their Creator, rather than the world or their own struggles.