Tori Kelly - Unbreakable Smile Lyrics
Lyrics
La da da da dee, you're not breaking me
La de da da da da da da da, yeah
Somebody told me fame is a disease
You start singing the blues when you start seeing the green
But I think it's all about what you choose
The way you live your life, depends on you
That's when I realized I wanna make a difference
Change other people's lives, give hope, even for a moment
Use my name for good and change the game I could
Because to make it you think I gotta act a certain way,
Be a little bit insane, live a little, it's okay
I guess we have different definitions of living, but you'll twist my words anyway
You'll say that I'm na?ve, like I don't have a past,
You're the one being deceived, I see right behind the mask
Tryna to stir me up and get me mad
I smile because happiness is all I have, so
La da da da dee, you're not breaking me
La de da da da, ain't got time for ya, singing
La da da da dee, you won't shatter me
La de da da da, got an unbreakable smile
You see me hanging with my fam, but that don't mean I'm living in a bubble
You'll find me at church, but that don't mean I can't cause trouble
Stir up a little scene 'cause isn't that what you want?
For me to mess up, so you can dress up some story
Saying, Tori this'll sell more records
But I'd rather make 'em yawn than be a pawn on your chessboard
So call me boring, call me cookie cutter
Call me what you want
A matter of fact
Just say it loud and don't st-stutter
'Cause I know who I am, yeah I'm still the same
Just a California girl with big dreams
Thinking maybe they'll let me sing songs about real things
And baby who knows maybe I can sell out shows without taking off my clothes
God made me sexy I don't care if only I know
La da da da dee, you're not breaking me
La de da da da, ain't got time for ya, singing
La da da da dee, you won't shatter me
La de da da da, got an unbreakable smile
Oh oh 2x
And I'll just keep on singing.
La da da da dee, you're not breaking me
La de da da da, ain't got time for ya
La da da da dee, you won't shatter me
La de da da da, got an unbreakable smile
I might be smiling, yes
But don't mistake kindness for weakness
Video
Tori Kelly - Unbreakable Smile (Official Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Tori Kelly's "Unbreakable Smile," released in 2015 as part of the *Unbreakable Smile (Bonus Track Version)* album, is a powerful declaration of self-possession and integrity in the often-unpredictable world of the music industry. The song isn't just about a smile; it's about an inner fortitude that refuses to be swayed by external pressures or criticism. Kelly addresses the often-cited notion that fame can corrupt, but she pivots, asserting that true fulfillment comes from conscious choices and a commitment to one's values. She acknowledges the temptation to conform to industry expectations, to be provocative or sensationalize one's life for greater visibility, but she firmly rejects this path. Instead, Kelly expresses a desire to use her platform for positive impact, to bring hope and make a difference, mirroring the biblical call to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16).
The song delves into the scrutiny that comes with public life, where actions can be misinterpreted and words twisted. Kelly anticipates judgment, being labeled naive or having her past leveraged against her, yet she maintains a clear-eyed perspective, recognizing the attempts to provoke and destabilize her. This resilience in the face of opposition echoes the strength found in faith. Consider the words of Proverbs 3:5-6, which encourages trusting in the Lord with all your heart and not leaning on your own understanding, and in all your ways acknowledging Him, that He may direct your paths. Kelly's steadfastness, her refusal to be "broken" or "shattered," speaks to a deep wellspring of personal conviction. She asserts her authenticity, remaining true to her roots as a "California girl with big dreams," and expressing a desire to sing about meaningful subjects without compromising her dignity. This resonates with the encouragement in 1 Timothy 4:12 to not let anyone despise her youth, but to be an example to believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. The recurring phrase "got an unbreakable smile" is not merely a superficial expression of happiness, but a symbol of her unyielding spirit, a testament to the joy that comes from living according to one's convictions, a joy that even critics cannot diminish. The closing lines, "I might be smiling, yes, but don't mistake kindness for weakness," serve as a final, potent reminder that her gentle demeanor is underpinned by an unshakeable core, a profound strength that aligns with the wisdom of Proverbs 31:25, stating that she is clothed with strength and dignity.