Introduction: Michael Jackson’s Earth Song Lyrics

Have you ever felt the overwhelming power of a song that speaks directly to your soul, like when Michael Jackson’s ‘Earth Song’ takes you on an emotional journey, urging you to reflect on the world’s suffering and your role in its healing? That’s exactly what Michael Jackson’s “Earth Song” does. As you explore the lyrics of this masterpiece, you’ll discover a poignant plea for environmental and social justice that remains as relevant today as it was when first released. In this blog post, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the lyrics, their significance, and the profound impact they’ve had on listeners worldwide.

The Significance of “Earth Song”

“Earth Song” is not just a song; it’s a call to action. It has inspired numerous environmental initiatives and social movements. For instance, the song has been used in campaigns to promote awareness about deforestation and climate change, urging listeners to participate in tree-planting drives and conservation efforts. Moreover, its powerful message has resonated in various charity events aimed at providing relief to war-torn regions, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental and humanitarian concerns.

Released in 1995, it became one of Michael Jackson’s most powerful anthems. This song transcends musical boundaries, touching on critical issues like environmental destruction, war, and the suffering of humanity. It became a symbol of hope and a wake-up call for many who listened to its urgent message.

Why “Earth Song” Resonates with You

Emotional Connection: The lyrics evoke strong emotions, making you reflect on the state of the world. The intensity of Jackson’s voice carries the weight of the issues he sings about, compelling you to feel a personal connection to the song’s themes.
Universal Message: Its message of healing the planet and humanity resonates across cultures and generations. Regardless of your background, the themes of environmental conservation and peace strike a chord that is hard to ignore.
Michael Jackson’s Passion: His heartfelt delivery and passionate plea for change make it impossible for you to remain indifferent. The emotion in his performance is palpable, driving the message home with every note.

Breakdown of “Earth Song” Lyrics

Verse 1: A Cry for Help

“What about sunrise? What about rain? What about all the things that you said we were to gain?”

In these opening lines, you can feel the urgency and despair as Jackson questions the promises made about protecting the planet. It’s a stark reminder of the gap between words and actions. This verse challenges you to consider the broken promises and unfulfilled commitments made to safeguard the environment.

Chorus: A Universal Plea

“Did you ever stop to notice all the blood we’ve shed before? Did you ever stop to notice this crying Earth, these weeping shores?”

The chorus drives home the message, urging you to pay attention to the Earth’s suffering. The imagery of a ‘crying Earth’ and ‘weeping shores’ enhances the emotional impact, painting a vivid picture of environmental despair that makes you feel the planet’s pain. This powerful visual language compels you to not just listen, but to see and feel the devastation, driving the message deep into your consciousness. The use of vivid imagery like “crying Earth” and “weeping shores” makes the devastation palpable. It compels you to open your eyes to the reality of environmental degradation and the ongoing consequences of human actions.

Bridge: A Call for Reflection

“I used to dream, I used to glance beyond the stars. Now I don’t know where we are, although I know we’ve drifted far from where we are.”

This section invites you to reflect on how far humanity has strayed from its dreams and ideals, such as the dream of living in harmony with nature and ensuring a clean, sustainable environment for future generations. Instead of progress towards these goals, we now face challenges like climate change and environmental degradation, which stand in stark contrast to those original aspirations. It’s a poignant reminder of the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities to the Earth. The nostalgic tone in these lines beckons you to remember a time of innocence and ambition, contrasting it with the current state of the world.

Verse 2: The Depth of Loss

“What about yesterday? What about the seas? The heavens are falling down. I can’t even breathe.”

This verse intensifies the emotional weight of the song, emphasizing the tangible effects of environmental damage. It evokes a sense of loss for what has already been destroyed, urging you to recognize the urgency of action before it’s too late.

The Impact of “Earth Song”

Environmental Awareness

“Earth Song” has played a significant role in raising environmental awareness. By highlighting issues like deforestation, pollution, and climate change, it has inspired countless listeners to take action for the planet. Its vivid depiction of a world in peril encourages you to consider your role in protecting the environment.

The song also serves as a social commentary on war and human suffering. Jackson’s lyrics urge you to recognize the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of compassion and empathy. The song’s critique of societal neglect and indifference to suffering is a call for you to cultivate a sense of responsibility toward your fellow beings.

Global Influence

Chart Success: “Earth Song” topped charts around the world, becoming an anthem for change. Its widespread popularity underscored the universal relevance of its message.
Awards and Recognition: The song received numerous awards, cementing its place in music history. These accolades not only celebrated its artistic merit but also the significant impact of its message.
Cultural Impact: It has been covered and performed by various artists, ensuring its message continues to reach new audiences. Each new rendition helps to keep the conversation about environmental and social issues alive.

Michael Jackson’s Earth Song Lyrics


What about sunrise?
What about rain?
What about all the things
That you said we were to gain?
What about killing fields?
Is there a time?
What about all the things
That you said was yours and mine?
Did you ever stop to notice
All the blood we've shed before?
Did you ever stop to notice
This crying Earth, these weeping shores?
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
What have we done to the world?
Look what we've done
What about all the peace
That you pledge your only son?
What about flowering fields?
Is there a time?
What about all the dreams
That you said was yours and mine?
Did you ever stop to notice
All the children dead from war?
Did you ever stop to notice
This crying Earth, these weeping shores?
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
I used to dream
I used to glance beyond the stars
Now I don't know where we are
Although I know we've drifted far
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Hey, what about yesterday?
(What about us?)
What about the seas?
(What about us?)
The heavens are falling down
(What about us?)
I can't even breathe
(What about us?)
What about apathy?
(What about us?)
I need you
(What about us?)
What about nature's worth?
(Ooh)
It's our planet's womb
(What about us?)
What about animals?
(What about it?)
We've turned kingdoms to dust
(What about us?)
What about elephants?
(What about us?)
Have we lost their trust
(What about us?)
What about crying whales?
(What about us?)
We're ravaging the seas
(What about us?)
What about forest trails?
(Ooh)
Burnt despite our pleas
(What about us?)
What about the holy land?
(What about it?)
Torn apart by creed
(What about us?)
What about the common man?
(What about us?)
Can't we set him free
(What about us?)
What about children dying?
(What about us?)
Can't you hear them cry?
(What about us?)
Where did we go wrong?
(Ooh)
Someone tell me why
(What about us?)
What about baby boy?
(What about it?)
What about the days?
(What about us?)
What about all their joy?
(What about us?)
What about the man?
(What about us?)
What about the crying man?
(What about us?)
What about Abraham?
(What about us?)
What about death again?
(Ooh)
Do we give a damn?
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh
Ah-ah-ah-ah-ah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh

Table: Key Themes in “Earth Song”

Theme	Lyrics Example	Impact
Environmental Destruction	“What about flowering fields? Is there a time?”	Raises awareness about environmental issues
War and Suffering	“What about all the peace that you pledge your only son?”	Highlights the human cost of conflict
Lost Dreams	“I used to dream, I used to glance beyond the stars.”	Reflects on lost ideals and aspirations

Conclusion: Michael Jackson’s Earth Song Lyrics

“Earth Song” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful message wrapped in music. As you’ve explored its lyrics, you’ve seen how Michael Jackson’s passionate plea for change continues to inspire and provoke thought. Now, it’s up to you to carry forward the message, to reflect, and to act in ways that honor the Earth and its inhabitants. Each verse and chorus is a call to action, a reminder that change starts with awareness and empathy.

Call to Action

What steps will you take today to make a difference? Whether it’s reducing your carbon footprint, advocating for social justice, or simply sharing this song’s message, every action counts. Let’s work together to create a better world, just as Michael Jackson envisioned. Your actions, no matter how small, contribute to a larger movement toward environmental and social justice.

FAQ Section: Michael Jackson’s Earth Song Lyrics

What is the main message of “Earth Song”?

The main message is a plea for environmental conservation and social justice. It urges listeners to reflect on the damage caused to the Earth and to take action. The song highlights the interconnectedness of environmental health and human well-being.

Why is “Earth Song” considered one of Michael Jackson’s most impactful songs?

“Earth Song” is impactful because of its powerful lyrics, emotional delivery, and the universal relevance of its message. It addresses critical global issues and inspires action. The song’s blend of soulful melody and urgent plea resonates deeply with audiences worldwide.

How did “Earth Song” perform commercially?

The song was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and receiving numerous awards. Its popularity helped spread its important message globally. The commercial success of “Earth Song” amplified its reach, bringing its vital message to millions of listeners.