Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “If Not Now, When? – Live at HQ, Los Angeles, CA – June/July 2011” by Incubus
If Not Now, When? explores the idea of seized opportunities and unresolved issues in relationships. In this song, we hear the protagonist’s inner dialogue as he questions his choices in life. He calls out to himself, wondering why he hasn’t taken action to improve his situation. He encourages himself to take control and live without regret, and become the person he wants to be.
The lyrics ask tough questions that challenge our own inner dialogue. We are advised to take risks, just as the protagonist is questioning himself for his inaction. We are forced to ask ourselves, if we don’t make a change right now, then when? With the urgent and steady beat of the drums, the song is a reminder to take advantage of opportunities and to finally take steps towards realizing our dreams, ambitions, and relationships.
Ultimately, the song resonates with the message that it is never too late to begin, and no matter what we have done, we can always start anew. Letting go of the past and the fear of taking risks is necessary in order to make positive life changes. Only by taking risks can we discover what we are capable of achieving.