23
Hunt Sam Lyrics
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Build you a house out on the water
That really impresses your father, yeah
And you can find some grown up friends
Drink some wine in California
But even if you cut it shorter
You'll always have long blond hair
You'll always be my first time in New Orleans
No matter where I go, no matter what I do
I'll never be twenty-three with anyone but you
You can marry who you want
Go back to Tennessee
But you'll never be twenty-three with anyone but me
We'll always have Folly beach
We'll always have Delta nights
We'll always be in-between real love and real life
You can ride the train to work
Straighten out your accent in the city
Like your folks ain't from Mississippi, yeah
You probably got an office view
Wearing those skirts you always hated
Yeah, you're so sophisticated
But I bet you when you drink too much
I bet you think 'bout back when
I really hope you're happy now
I'm really glad I knew you then
No matter where I go, no matter what I do
I'll never be twenty-three with anyone but you
You can marry who you want
Go back to Tennessee
But you'll never be twenty-three with anyone but me
We'll always have Folly beach
We'll always have Delta nights
We'll always be in-between real love and real life, yeah
You'll always have your first last name
Standing in that July rain
Telling me your mind is changed
But in my mind you're still the same
Long blond hair (long blond hair)
You'll always be Memphis queen (Memphis queen)
You'll always be my first time (my first time) in New Orleans (yeah yeah)
No matter where I go, no matter what I do
I'll never be twenty-three with anyone but you (anyone but you)
You can marry who you want
Go back to Tennessee (yeah)
But you'll never be twenty-three with anyone but me
In "23" by Hunt Sam, the lyrics depict a nostalgic reflection on a past relationship and the longing for a special connection that cannot be replicated. The song portrays the idea that no matter what experiences or relationships the singer may have in the future, he will always cherish the memories and unique bond he shared with this person, who is symbolized as a "Memphis queen" and represents the singer's past.
The lyrics begin by suggesting that the person can choose to marry an architect and build a house to impress their father, or find new friends and enjoy the pleasures of California. However, no matter how they shape their life, they will always possess their remarkable qualities, such as their long blond hair, that made them special to the singer. They will always be the "Memphis queen" and the singer's first time experiencing the vibrant city of New Orleans.
The chorus emphasizes the singer's unwavering sentiment towards this person. They express that no matter where they go or what they do, they will never be able to recapture the youthful essence and unique connection they shared when they were twenty-three, except with each other. It highlights the idea that this specific age and relationship hold a significant place in their heart.
The lyrics continue by acknowledging that the person can marry whomever they choose and return to their home state of Tennessee, but they will never again experience being twenty-three with anyone other than the singer. The memories created together, like the moments spent on Folly Beach and the nights spent in the Delta, will always be a part of their shared history. They will forever exist in an in-between state, somewhere between deep love and the realities of life.
The bridge of the song adds depth to the narrative by illustrating the changes that have occurred in the person's life since they were together. They have adopted a more sophisticated lifestyle in the city and have seemingly moved on. However, the song suggests that deep down, they still think about their past relationship and the times when things were simpler. It reveals the singer's genuine hope for the person's happiness, while also expressing gratitude for the past connection.
Ultimately, "23" speaks to the nostalgia and longing one can experience for a specific time in their life and a particular person who holds a special place in their heart. The lyrics convey the idea that no matter what happens in the future, the memories and bond shared during a youthful phase cannot be replicated, and that remains something cherished by the singer.
Line by Line Meaning
You can marry an architect
You have the ability to choose a partner who is skilled in building and design
Build you a house out on the water
They can construct a residence situated near a body of water
That really impresses your father, yeah
This house will genuinely awe your father and gain his approval
And you can find some grown up friends
You can form relationships with mature individuals
Drink some wine in California
You are able to indulge in wine while in California
But even if you cut it shorter
Regardless of making choices that may reduce your plans
You'll always have long blond hair
Your signature characteristic will always be your lengthy blonde hair
You'll always be Memphis queen
Your status as a queen of Memphis will never change
You'll always be my first time in New Orleans
You will forever hold the memory of being my initial experience in New Orleans
No matter where I go, no matter what I do
Irrespective of my location or actions
I'll never be twenty-three with anyone but you
The age of twenty-three will only be shared with you and no one else
You can marry who you want
You have the freedom to marry the person of your choosing
Go back to Tennessee
You have the option to return to the state of Tennessee
But you'll never be twenty-three with anyone but me
However, you will never experience the age of twenty-three with anyone other than me
We'll always have Folly beach
We will forever hold our memories and experiences at Folly Beach
We'll always have Delta nights
The moments we spent together during Delta nights will remain with us eternally
We'll always be in-between real love and real life
Our relationship will always exist in the realm between genuine love and the practicalities of life
You can ride the train to work
You can commute to your job by train
Straighten out your accent in the city
While in the city, you have the opportunity to refine or modify your accent
Like your folks ain't from Mississippi, yeah
Pretending as if your parents are not originally from Mississippi
You probably got an office view
It is likely that you have a view of the cityscape from your office
Wearing those skirts you always hated
You are now wearing skirts that you previously disliked
Yeah, you're so sophisticated
Your current demeanor and style reflect sophistication
But I bet you when you drink too much
However, I am willing to wager that when you consume excessive amounts of alcohol
I bet you think 'bout back when
You reminisce about the past
I really hope you're happy now
It is genuinely my wish that you are currently content
I'm really glad I knew you then
I am sincerely grateful for having known you during that time
You'll always have your first last name
Your original surname will always remain a part of your identity
Standing in that July rain
Recalling the memory of standing together in the rain during July
Telling me your mind is changed
Informing me that you have altered your perspective or opinion
But in my mind you're still the same
However, in my mind, you have not changed from the person you were
Long blond hair (long blond hair)
Your lengthy blonde hair remains a defining feature
You'll always be Memphis queen (Memphis queen)
Your position as a queen of Memphis is enduring
You'll always be my first time (my first time) in New Orleans (yeah yeah)
The memory of you being my first experience in New Orleans will always stay with me
No matter where I go, no matter what I do
Regardless of my location or actions
I'll never be twenty-three with anyone but you (anyone but you)
I will never experience the age of twenty-three with anyone other than you
You can marry who you want
You have the freedom to marry the person of your choosing
Go back to Tennessee (yeah)
You have the option to return to the state of Tennessee
But you'll never be twenty-three with anyone but me
However, you will never experience the age of twenty-three with anyone other than me
We'll always have Folly beach
We will forever hold our memories and experiences at Folly Beach
We'll always have Delta nights
The moments we spent together during Delta nights will remain with us eternally
We'll always be in-between real love and real life, yeah
Our relationship will always exist in the realm between genuine love and the practicalities of life
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Christopher Michael LaCorte, Joshua Shaun Osborne, Sam Lawry Hunt, Shane Lamar McAnally
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@fariqazaha6321
This song came across our car’s radio 3 days ago, and it hauntingly sticks to me all day.
This song gives me happiness - that 23 was our happiest year together when we were studying abroad in Europe, in love, doing everything, going everywhere together, so many photos, videos and memories. Just so carefree and beautiful. Fast forward to 8 years later, we are now both 31, and blessed with two kids.
It also gives me profound sadness and forlorn - that 23 was also when I was the happiest, and felt the most success with studies and everything, thinking that I was meant for big things in life. We ended up cheated on each other at a different time, she did it when I was too busy with work, I did it when I was too into something else of she wasn’t part of. It is painful. We both made up to each other, but I never feel the same happiness as I had when we were 23, nor having the same trust.
I’m just glad we are still together now (at least for the kids) and hope that she would just still love me like she did 8 years ago, though things have changed within her.
This song will continue to serenade my life for years to come. May it with smiles or tears.
Thanks Sam.
@user-ud8un2mc2i
I love this song,and I'm a 50 year old black man
@blakebarberi4828
I'm a 50 year old Black woman and I like this too. Did you notice that cute chocolate baby she had in the crib. I guess he approves too. 😂😂😂
@ataylor702
I love that this song doesn’t evoke any sense of regret. This is the perfect song for those people you loved and still wish the best for. Its about what was, not what could’ve been.
@ultimatebasses
23. That's 42 years ago. Memories of being young and carefree.
@mrmace5120
Who else isn't a country music fan but still listens to this every day 👀
@barron4755
What an absolutely Magical Song - It brings back so many memories of my Beautiful Wife who passed away in 2020 at the Young age of 44 - but she was 23 with me - and always in my Heart !!
@felixherrera1479
So sorry to know this friend. Keep her always in your heart. Live well, live blessed. 🙏🏼
@thepregamer3837
My father died at 43… I know how you feel!😔
@MrBluestar22
sorry for your loss, sounds like we're the same age , she's been 23 with me and she'll always be just like you
@markbaker23
God bless...so sorry