Overtime Lyrics – Zach Bryan

The second part of this verse is more introspective. The narrator talks about making a conscious decision not to stay silent about their emotions and struggles. They express a feeling of freedom despite having experienced the loss of their family due to a serious illness ("bad disease"). There's a mention of a recurring negative trait ("mean, mean gene") in the narrator's family lineage that has affected multiple generations, including their grandfather and his daughters. This could symbolize a tendency toward negative behaviors or patterns that the narrator wants to address....Read More

[Pre-Chorus]
In the pre-chorus, the narrator expresses their desire to maintain humility and hunger for success. They yearn to hear their father express love for them, which indicates a longing for emotional validation and acceptance from their family. The narrator distances themselves from arrogance, suggesting they don't care about being conceited or self-important.

[Chorus]
The chorus is a rallying cry that captures the essence of the song. The narrator emphasizes their intention to work hard and surpass expectations. They acknowledge that they've been told they couldn't achieve their goals and that they shouldn't even attempt to do so. However, the narrator's determination remains unwavering. The phrase "working overtime" implies putting in extra effort and going above and beyond to prove doubters wrong. The chorus suggests that this relentless work ethic has been a part of their life since childhood.

[Verse 2]
The second verse shifts focus to the narrator's identity and struggles. They recount being labeled as a "wanna-be cowboy" from a tough, competitive town, where they are seemingly an outsider. The narrator's appearance, with "tattooed skin," adds to their perceived non-conformity. Critics claim their songs all sound the same and doubt their potential for fame. However, the narrator has a history of resilience, having endured hardship throughout their life.

The narrator recalls their grandfather's work ethic, highlighting that even in the face of adversity, their grandfather worked tirelessly. This work ethic seems to have been passed down through the generations. The narrator's grandfather also advised them to avoid succumbing to the pride and arrogance of the world.

[Pre-Chorus]
Similar to the first pre-chorus, the second pre-chorus reiterates the narrator's aspiration for personal growth and deserving success. They emphasize that it doesn't matter who you know or what you do – the key is to become deserving of success through hard work and authenticity.

[Chorus]
The final chorus echoes the determination and resilience present throughout the song. The narrator restates their commitment to working overtime despite being told they couldn't succeed. The repetition of "ever since I was a child, been workin' for a while, overtime" underscores the narrator's lifelong pursuit of their goals.

In summary, "Overtime" by Zach Bryan is a song that speaks to the challenges of pursuing dreams, dealing with family issues, and overcoming societal expectations. The narrator's dedication to hard work, humility, and authenticity shines through as they confront obstacles and strive to prove their worth. The song's emotional depth and relatable themes contribute to its impact and resonance with listeners. ...Read Less