science | January 13, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: Mind Over Matter by Young the Giant

The Meaning Behind The Song: Mind Over Matter by Young the Giant

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The Meaning Behind The Song: Mind Over Matter by Young the Giant

Young the Giant’s hit song, “Mind Over Matter,” is an anthem for anyone who is trying to overcome obstacles and believe in themselves. Written by lead vocalist Sameer Gadhia, the song explores the idea that your mind is a powerful tool that can help you achieve anything you set your sights on.

The Inspiration Behind the Song

Gadhia has said that the inspiration for “Mind Over Matter” came from his own experiences as a young musician trying to make it in the industry. He said that he often found himself doubting his abilities and feeling like success was out of reach.

But as he started to see more success and recognition for his music, he began to realize that the only thing holding him back was his own mindset. He decided to “flip the script” in his mind and start believing in himself, no matter what anyone else thought.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Mind Over Matter” reflect this mindset shift. The chorus repeats the lines “Cause I’m living just to breathe / And I need something more / To keep on breathing for / So give me something to believe / Is it enough to love? / Is it enough to breathe? / Somebody rip my heart out / And leave me here to bleed / Is it enough to die? / Somebody save my life / I’d rather be anything but ordinary please.”

These lyrics touch on the idea that sometimes we need something more than just the basics in life to feel fulfilled and motivated. We need something that we can believe in, something that will push us to be extraordinary.

The Music Video

The music video for “Mind Over Matter” features the band performing in a futuristic laboratory setting. Throughout the video, different images and words flash on the screen, hinting at the song’s deeper message.

At one point, the words “redefine yourself” appear on the screen, reinforcing the idea that we can change our own mindsets and overcome any obstacles in our way. At the end of the video, the band members are seen breaking out of some kind of confinement and escaping into the unknown, perhaps symbolizing the idea of breaking free from limitations and chasing our dreams.

FAQs

What inspired Young the Giant to write “Mind Over Matter?”

Lead vocalist Sameer Gadhia has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences as a musician trying to make it in the industry. He realized that his own mindset and beliefs about himself were holding him back, and he wanted to write a song that would inspire others to believe in themselves and their abilities.

What is the message of the song?

The message of “Mind Over Matter” is that we have the power to overcome any obstacles in our way if we believe in ourselves and our abilities. Sometimes we need something more than just the basics in life to feel fulfilled and motivated, and we can find that something by pushing ourselves to be extraordinary.

What is the significance of the lyrics “Cause I’m living just to breathe?”

This line suggests that sometimes we can get stuck in a rut and feel like we’re just going through the motions of life without any real purpose or motivation. We need something more than just the essentials (like breathing) to feel alive and fulfilled.

What is the meaning behind the futuristic laboratory setting in the music video?

The laboratory setting and futuristic imagery in the music video are meant to symbolize the idea of pushing boundaries and breaking out of confinement. The band members are seen breaking free from some kind of confinement and exploring the unknown, suggesting that we can break free from our own mental limitations and chase our dreams.

Who directed the “Mind Over Matter” music video?

The music video was directed by Marc Klasfeld, a well-known music video director who has worked with many other popular artists in the industry.

What other songs are on Young the Giant’s album “Mind Over Matter?”

The album “Mind Over Matter” includes 10 other songs in addition to the title track, including “It’s About Time,” “Crystallized,” “Eros,” and “Teachers.”

Has “Mind Over Matter” won any awards?

The song has not won any major awards, but it has been nominated for a few. In 2015, it was nominated for a Billboard Music Award for Top Rock Album.

What other popular songs has Young the Giant released?

Young the Giant has released several other popular songs over the years, including “Cough Syrup,” “My Body,” “Apartment,” and “Something to Believe In.”

What is the genre of “Mind Over Matter?”

The song could be classified as alternative rock or indie rock, two genres that Young the Giant is often associated with.

Has Young the Giant toured extensively to promote “Mind Over Matter?”

Yes, the band has toured extensively to promote the album, performing in venues all over the world. They have also been a popular choice for music festivals, including Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Bonnaroo.

What other albums has Young the Giant released?

In addition to “Mind Over Matter,” Young the Giant has released several other albums over the years, including their self-titled debut album in 2010 and “Home of the Strange” in 2016.

What do critics think of “Mind Over Matter?”

The song has generally received positive reviews from critics, with many praising the band’s ability to create an uplifting and inspiring anthem. Reviewers have also noted the song’s catchy melody and powerful lyrics.