Meaning of "Big Idea" by AJR

The lyrics of "Big Idea" delve into the world of aspiring musicians and the hurdles they face on their journey to success. The repetition of "Pro Tools and a mic and a big idea" throughout the song highlights the belief in the power of having a creative concept and the necessary tools to bring it to life. The reference to "seven years" suggests a long and challenging journey the artists have been on, with the hope of finally reaching their desired destination.

The lyrics also touch on the limitations and unconventional choices the artists have made. The lines "Bar scenes weren't an option, Ukulele DJs, only band in the genre" suggest that they have taken a different path, avoiding common avenues and embracing unique elements, such as playing the ukulele, to set them apart. The mention of "Bahamas" represents the dream of escaping to a more idyllic and successful place.

The mention of "no IDs" hints at the struggle these artists face in gaining recognition from the industry. Despite the absence of official identification or validation, they strive to create music that is still valuable and enjoyable, stating that "good music's still good even if no one is watching." This showcases their determination and belief in their talents, regardless of external validation.

The lyrics also touch on the dynamic between the artists and the industry. The line "John's too big to fail, make it superstar, his label's doing the thing and we were doing ours" suggests a contrast between the mainstream music industry and the independent artist's journey. The mention of feeling alone until hearing a track on the discotheque emphasizes the power of music and finding connection through it.

The overall message of the song is one of empowerment and resilience. It speaks to the struggles faced by aspiring musicians, but with an underlying message that they have the ability to make a difference, even with limited resources. It encourages the listener to embrace their creative ideas and strive for success, reminding them that they can do anything they want.