Waterfalls
by TLC
What is “Waterfalls” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Waterfalls” by TLC is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
TLC's 'Waterfalls' is a cautionary tale about the dangers of venturing into risky, unknown territories rather than sticking to familiar, safer grounds. It emotionally warns against the reckless pursuit of desires that could lead to profound consequences.
So… what’s this song really about?
In 'Waterfalls,' TLC taps into the human experience of temptation and the inherent risks involved in chasing after elusive, often dangerous dreams. The song metaphorically uses 'waterfalls' to represent beautiful but potentially treacherous pursuits that can seduce one away from stability ('the rivers and lakes you're used to'). The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and concern about the pace at which one is moving towards these dangers, suggesting that such haste can lead to self-destruction. The rap verse by Left Eye deepens the narrative by addressing specific social issues and personal struggles, such as drug addiction and the internal battles that lead individuals to make harmful choices. This verse emphasizes the necessity of personal strength and faith in navigating life's challenges, advocating for self-belief and resilience as tools to overcome adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What year was 'Waterfalls' by TLC released?
The song 'Waterfalls' was released in 1995.
Q: Who wrote 'Waterfalls' for TLC?
The song 'Waterfalls' was written by Marqueze Etheridge, Organized Noize, and members of TLC, including Lisa 'Left Eye' Lopes.
Lyrics to “Waterfalls”
111 ContributorsWaterfalls Lyrics
[Chorus: T-Boz & All, Chilli]
Don't go chasing waterfalls
Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to
I know that you're gonna have it your way or nothing at all (Your way or no way)
But I think you're moving too fast
Don't go chasing waterfalls
Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to
I know that you're gonna have it your way or nothing at all
But I think you're moving too fast
[Verse 3: Left Eye]
Come on!
I seen a rainbow yesterday, but too many storms
Have come and gone, leaving a trace of not one God-given ray
Is it because my life is ten shades of gray?
I pray all ten fade away, seldom praise Him for the sunny days
And like His promise is true, only my faith can undo
The many chances I blew to bring my life to anew
Clear blue and unconditional skies
Have dried the tears from my eyes, no more lonely cries
My only bleeding hope is for the folk who can't cope
With such an endurin' pain that it keeps 'em in the pourin' rain
Who's to blame for tooting 'caine into your own vein?
What a shame, you shoot and aim for someone else's brain
You claim the insane, and name this day in time
For falling prey to crime
I say the system got you victim to your own mind
Dreams are hopeless aspirations in hopes of coming true
Believe in yourself, the rest is up to me and you
[Chorus: T-Boz & All, Chilli]
Don't go chasing waterfalls
Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to
I know that you're gonna have it your way or nothing at all
But I think you're moving too fast
Don't go chasing waterfalls
Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to
I know that you're gonna have it your way or nothing at all
But I think you're movin' too fast (Ooh, you're movin' too fast)
Don't go chasing waterfalls (Don't go, don't go)
Please stick to the rivers and the lakes that you're used to
I know that you're gonna have it your way or nothing at all (I know, I know, your way, hey)
But I think you're moving too fast