Meaning of "Everything is Free" by Gillian Welch

"Everything is Free" speaks to the changing landscape of the music industry and the diminishing value of artistic work in the digital age. The lyrics express a sense of defeat and resignation towards the fact that, despite the effort and time put into creating music, it is increasingly available for free. The opening line, "Everything is free now, that's what they say," reflects a common sentiment that music should be freely accessible by anyone, leading to a devaluation of artists' work. The mention of the "big score" highlights how some individuals have found success and figured out alternative ways to monetize art. However, the artist acknowledges that regardless of the financial aspect, they will continue creating music because it is their passion.

The second verse describes the struggle of trying to make a living through music. The artist reflects on the option of busking and how they've done it before, emphasizing the willingness to work hard. However, it becomes apparent that the motive for working is not solely about monetary gain but rather the intrinsic satisfaction derived from pursuing one's passion. The lyrics suggest that even if the artist were to get a "straight job," the drive and dedication to their craft would persist.

The third verse dives deeper into the artist's personal experience and mindset. They describe waking up every day humming a song, illustrating the enduring love and connection they have with music. Choosing not to pursue fame or chase after external validation, the artist finds solace in singing songs for themselves. This emphasizes the inherent self-expression and fulfillment gained through music creation. The final lines of the song reiterate the overarching message that artistic expression remains a fundamental part of the artist's identity and will persist regardless of the financial rewards.