Meaning of "Somebody Was Watching" by Pops Staples

The lyrics of "Somebody Was Watching" convey a powerful message of resilience, hope, and the belief in a higher power. The narrator expresses their experiences of pain and adversity, from being shot up and turned away to feeling confused and abused. However, amidst their struggles, they find solace and strength in the notion that somebody was watching over them. This somebody represents a divine presence or higher power that has guided and protected them throughout their journeys.

The song suggests that even in the darkest moments, there is an unseen force providing support and guidance. It emphasizes the importance of faith and trust, showing how these beliefs can carry a person through their darkest times. The recurring line, "Somebody was watching over me," serves as a reminder that there is a greater purpose to their suffering and that they are not alone.

The narrator's reflection on their past allows them to recognize how their life has transformed. Despite once having nothing to call their own, living in poverty and addiction, they now find themselves in a better place. Their bad times have become better than their good times used to be. This transformation can be attributed to the presence of the watching somebody, who has provided the narrator with strength, perseverance, and ultimately, a more positive outlook on life.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of redemption and the power of change. Through their experiences, the narrator has learned from their weaknesses and found newfound strength. They acknowledge the struggle of their past – feeling lost, being without a job, a car, or a home – but emphasize that those times are behind them. The somebody watching over them has helped to turn their life around for the better.

Overall, "Somebody Was Watching" is a reflection on the hardships faced in life and the belief in a higher power that provides hope, strength, and transformation. It offers a message of resilience, reminding listeners to hold onto faith even during the most challenging times, as there is always somebody watching over them.