Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: funk
Song Meaning of “Promises, Promises – Live at HQ, Los Angeles, CA – June/July 2011” by Incubus
Promises, Promises is a powerful song from the rock band Incubus. It speaks to the state of modern society, where people make promises as a means of control and manipulation. The narrator is conveying his disillusionment and frustration at the actions of others. He feels burdened and isolated by the pressure that society places on him, and this leads to him feeling powerless. He questions why people make promises but don’t keep them, and why it’s not considered a more serious offense.
The song speaks to the idea that though society puts a heavy emphasis on keeping promises, it doesn’t always practice what it preaches. Promises made are too often broken and the narrator feels that people do not take this matter seriously enough. He makes the case that if promises are made, then they should be kept. He is not asking for much; he is simply asking for honesty and integrity.
The narrator is reflective and embracing of his feelings: “Hold ourselves steady under the weight of emotion” – this can be interpreted as him allowing himself to feel his feelings without being ashamed or guilty. He is also determined to find a better way of living his life, away from expectations and promises that are easily broken.
Promises Promises is a song about dreaming for a different world, where promises are taken seriously and respected. It touches on the idea of freedom and finding the courage to stay true to yourself, despite pressures from the external world. It is a rock n’ roll anthem that highlights the need for a better way of life and stronger commitment to honesty and integrity.