Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “M J B” by Futurebirds
“M J B” by Futurebirds is a lush, ethereal song that pays tribute to a mysterious figure named M J B. In an interview with American Songwriter, lead singer Carter King said that the song is based on a true story and is “about a friend who is living a really nomadic life and living in a motorhome and all these other adventures and travails she finds herself getting into.” She is an embodiment of freedom and unbounded courage, going on her own path no matter what the odds are against her.
The song speaks of her story in a dreamy, yet powerful way. The chorus speaks of her strength and resilience, “M J B, standing alone, don’t let no one control you, you keep on coming ‘til your will stands strong.” She is determined to make a life on her own terms, against all odds. The verses evoke a lonely, yet uplifting atmosphere; “Empty sky, the birds have flown, silence on the hill in the dark, no one will deny or refuse you, you keep walking till you find the light of dawn.” This suggests the idea that M J B’s journey will be long and arduous, but that she takes strength from the beauty of nature, and by putting one foot in front of the other, she will eventually find the answers she’s looking for.
In the end, the song celebrates the courage of individuals like M J B who reject conformity and instead go their own way, living with freedom and purpose. As Futurebirds sings, “she’s always heading off to find her freedom, M J B is her own best friend.”