Do you know what's worth fighting for
When it's not worth dying for?
Does it take your breath away
And you feel yourself suffocating?
Does the pain weigh out the pride
And you look for a place to hide?
Did someone break your heart inside?
You're in ruins
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
EVERYBODY!
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky, you and I
When you're at the end of the road
And you've lost all sense of control
And your thoughts have taken their toll
When your mind breaks the spirit of your soul
Your faith walks on broken glass
And the hangover doesn't pass
Nothing's ever built to last
You're in ruins
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
EVERYBODY!
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky
You and I
Did you try to live on your own
When you burned down the house and home?
Did you stand too close to the fire
Like a liar looking for forgiveness from a stone?
EVERYBODY!
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky
You and I
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
EVERYDODY! YEAH!
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky, you and I
ARE U NEW YORK?
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky
1, 21 guns
Lay down your arms, give up the fight
1, 21 guns
Throw up your arms into the sky
You and I
NEW YORK!
About This Song
"21 Guns" is a deeply introspective ballad that explores the moment when someone realizes they must surrender in life's battles, whether personal, political, or emotional. The song uses the military metaphor of laying down arms-with "21 guns" referencing the traditional military salute for fallen soldiers-to examine themes of defeat, exhaustion, and the wisdom that sometimes comes with giving up fights that can't be won. Lyrically, it delves into the psychological toll of prolonged struggle, questioning what's truly worth fighting for when the cost becomes unbearable, and exploring the shame and vulnerability that comes with admitting defeat. The track represents a departure from Green Day's typical punk aggression, featuring a more mature, arena-rock sound with sweeping guitars, orchestral elements, and Billie Joe Armstrong's most vulnerable vocal performance to date. Musically, it builds from intimate verses to an anthemic, cathartic chorus that transforms surrender from weakness into liberation. The song resonated powerfully with listeners during the late 2000s economic crisis and ongoing wars, offering both personal solace for individual struggles and broader commentary on America's political fatigue. Its universal message about knowing when to stop fighting-whether against addiction, toxic relationships, or impossible circumstances-struck a chord with audiences seeking permission to let go. The track became one of Green Day's biggest mainstream hits, proving that even a punk band's fans were ready for songs about strategic retreat rather than endless rebellion.
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