Skillet - Freak Show Lyrics
Lyrics
Circus barker:
Step right up! Ladies and gentlemen!
Come and see
Things your eyes won't believe!
Some say they are aliens,
Some say they are stranger!
Some say they are not of this world!
We will not conform to the masses
Whether they scorn,
Or whether they attack us
Come one, come all!
Welcome! To the freak show!
Welcome to the freak show,
Step up, status quo
Hope you enjoy the ride!
Welcome to the freak show,
We got horns and halos
We ain't afraid,
And we ain't buying the lie
Eat it, drink it, think it, be it, breathe it
Guess you don't even know who I am
I don't believe it, need it,
See it, feed it, breed it
Time to make my final stand!
Welcome to the freakshow!
This is where the freaks go!
This is the the place that they
Can never take away!
Welcome to the freakshow!
We don't ever need no
One to tell us who to be, how to think
I don't care what they believe
Oh, oh, oh, welcome to the freakshow!
Welcome to the outcast,
Take a step across the tracks
We ain't got nothing to prove
Don't need your smiley face,
Don't need your hand to shake
'Cause its my life to live
And I ain't living for you
Eat it, drink it, think it, be it, breathe it
Guess you don't even know who I am
I don't believe it, need it,
See it, feed it, breed it
Time to make my final stand!
Welcome to the freakshow!
This is where the freaks go!
This is the the place that they
Can never take away!
Welcome to the freakshow!
We don't ever need no
One to tell us who to be, how to think
I don't care what they believe
Oh, oh, oh, welcome to the freakshow!
= Guitar Solo =
I'm a freak, naturally,
Just how I want to be
You're a freak, just like me
I'm a freak, naturally,
Just how I want to be
You're a freak, just like me!
Welcome to the freakshow!
This is where the freaks go!
This is the the place, that they
Can never take away!
Welcome to the freakshow!
We don't ever need no
One to tell us who to be, how to think
I don't care what they believe
Freakshow!
Freakshow!
The place that they,
Can never take away!
Freakshow!
Freakshow!
The place that they,
Can never take away!
Oh, oh, oh, welcome to the freakshow!
Oh, oh, oh, welcome to the freakshow!
Video
Freakshow
Meaning & Inspiration
Skillet's "Freak Show," a standout track released on November 8, 2014, as part of the deluxe edition of their album *Rise*, immediately sets a defiant and empowering tone. The track introduces a powerful concept through the metaphor of a circus "freak show," transforming what might typically be a label of derision into an emblem of strength and self-acceptance. The opening lines, delivered by a classic circus barker, beckon individuals into a space where individuality is celebrated, and non-conformity is the norm. It establishes a narrative for those who stand apart, challenging societal expectations with conviction and an unapologetic embrace of their true selves.
At its heart, "Freak Show" is a resounding anthem for those who refuse to blend into the cultural wallpaper. The declaration "We will not conform to the masses" and "We ain't buying the lie" echoes a foundational principle found throughout Scripture: the call for God's people to be distinct and set apart. Romans 12:2 powerfully instructs, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Skillet channels this sentiment, encouraging a counter-cultural posture that prioritizes divine truth over popular opinion, daring to embrace a different way of thinking and living when confronted by the "status quo."
The song champions an identity rooted in authenticity, declaring "I'm a freak, naturally, just how I want to be." This isn't a call to eccentricity for its own sake, but an affirmation of one's God-given uniqueness in a world that often pressures individuals into a narrow mold. Psalm 139:14 celebrates this profound truth: "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Embracing this divine design means rejecting the superficial "smiley face" and handshakes offered by a world that demands conformity, as the lyrics suggest. This aligns with Galatians 1:10, which asks whether one seeks to please people or God, ultimately affirming that a servant of Christ cannot truly do both.
The resolute stance of "Time to make my final stand!" speaks to an unyielding commitment to personal conviction. In a world awash with shifting narratives, the song advocates for holding firm to a truth that transcends trends. This commitment mirrors the biblical imperative to stand firm in faith, as exhorted in Ephesians 6:13: "Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." The refusal to be told "who to be, how to think" resonates deeply with the freedom found in knowing biblical truth, which, as John 8:32 promises, "will set you free." This liberation allows individuals to live boldly, confident in their beliefs, even if it means being an "outcast" from mainstream thought.
Significantly, "Freak Show" also paints a picture of community, a gathering place where "freaks go." It’s a sanctuary for those who feel marginalized or misunderstood by the mainstream. This concept beautifully reflects the Church itself – a body of believers called out of the world, often perceived as different or peculiar, but finding belonging and strength in shared faith. 1 Peter 2:9 describes believers as "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession," highlighting their distinct identity and purpose. Within this "freak show," there's mutual acceptance and encouragement, a spiritual home that "they can never take away," much like the enduring promise of Christ's church, against which "the gates of Hades will not overcome it," as declared in Matthew 16:18.
The powerful assertion "its my life to live and I ain't living for you" directly challenges the pervasive human tendency to seek validation from others. This resonates with the biblical call to live for an audience of One. Colossians 3:23 encourages, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." Skillet’s "Freak Show" becomes an inspiring declaration of spiritual independence, urging individuals to courageously embrace their unique calling and identity in Christ, unwavering in the face of scorn or opposition, and to find strength in their divinely purposed distinctiveness. The song is a powerful reminder that true freedom and belonging are found not in conforming to the world, but in celebrating one's unique identity as designed by God.