Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “Strange Man” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
The song ‘Strange Man’ by Red Hot Chili Peppers speaks of the feelings of having doubts regarding one’s place in the world. The artist is feeling like a stranger amongst those around him, struggling to make sense of his life’s journey. He wonders if he can trust his instincts and go against the grain of society, or if he should try to fit in and follow the status quo.
The chorus speaks of the artist’s inner turmoil over these conflicting desires – “I don’t need no advice, look inside I’m the one who pays the price. I’m a strange man, I’m in a strange land, I know what I’m not but not what I am.” He goes on to express the idea that this struggle is necessary for him to find his own unique identity and true purpose.
The artist’s struggle with identity and sense of belonging is further emphasized in the lyrics of the second verse, “I’m a simple man, I walk a mysterious land. I don’t know what I want but I know who I am.” He is aware of who he is, but still unsure of the direction he is headed in.
The overall message of the song is that it is ok to be a ‘strange man’ in a strange land, and all of us have our own unique journeys to take in life. We can be our own kind of strange and it is through this journey that we can find our true identity and fulfillment.