Meaning of "(I Want To) Be Someone" by Scatman John

"(I Want To) Be Someone" delves into the theme of insecurity and the desire to escape one's own reality by becoming someone more successful, confident, and admired. The protagonist paints a vivid picture of their discontentment with their current status in life, yearning for material possessions, social status, and love that they believe will make them happy and whole. However, the lyrics also reveal a sense of self-awareness as the protagonist recognizes the facade they put up to hide their true feelings of inadequacy and lack of identity. The constant comparison to others and the obsession with external validation highlight the internal struggle of feeling "less than everybody I see." This internal conflict between the persona they present to the world and the true self that feels lost and out of place reflects the universal desire for acceptance and belonging. Ultimately, the song captures the poignant longing to find one's true identity and purpose, transcending the shallow pursuit of external validation and material success.