Settle Your Scores, an Ohio-based rock band, released their track “Streets Ahead (If You Have to Ask, You’re Streets Behind)” as part of their album, Retrofit, in 2021. The song explores the struggles of pursuing a passion that doesn’t align with societal expectations. The lyrics resonate with many individuals who have dedicated themselves to their craft, only to feel overlooked and disregarded. Through introspective and emotive lyrics, Settle Your Scores captures the frustration and determination of artists who persist despite facing countless obstacles.

The lyrics of “Streets Ahead” delve into the personal journey of the songwriter who reflects on the choices they’ve made in life. In the opening lines, the songwriter expresses a sense of regret, contemplating what could have been if they had followed a more conventional path. The lyrics “Guess life just never went as planned, I should’ve been chasing girls and chasing highs, but instead, I joined the band” encapsulate the internal conflict faced by many artists who choose to pursue their passion despite societal norms.

The songwriter recognizes that their dedication to their art has not been met with widespread recognition or financial success. They acknowledge that the skills they have developed through music, such as learning notes and scales, don’t necessarily translate into commercial success. They lament, “That just don’t equate to record sales, guess I should’ve followed more trends (Or made famous friends), instead of wasting time with a guitar and a pen.”

It is this frustration and disillusionment that forms the core of the song’s message. The songwriter yearns for a change, a breakthrough that will finally validate their efforts. They express a desire for recognition and a longing to make a name for themselves. The lyrics “No wonder no one will ever know my name, just once I just want something to change” encapsulate this longing for recognition and the need to break free from the perceived lack of success.

The chorus of “Streets Ahead” reveals the internal conflict faced by the songwriter. While they can’t let go of their passion for music, a voice in their head urges them to give up, suggesting that they will never make it. The lyrics “Listen up, just give up and go home kid, pack it up cause you’re never gonna make it” depict the battle between self-belief and self-doubt. It highlights the emotional toll that pursuing a passion can take, particularly when faced with constant setbacks and a lack of support.

The song also touches upon the harsh reality of the music industry and the challenges faced by aspiring artists. The lyrics “I never aimed to strike it rich, I know six strings won’t make my wallet thick” emphasize the understanding that financial success may not be attainable through music alone. However, the songwriter still had hope that their dedication and hard work would allow them to stand out from the crowd and make a difference in someone’s life. The lyrics “I just hoped if I wrote ’til my fingers, they broke, I’d stick out from the crowd, maybe feed one mouth” depict this desire to create an impact, even if it’s on a smaller scale.

As I listen to “Streets Ahead” by Settle Your Scores, I find myself relating to the lyrics and the feelings of frustration and self-doubt expressed in the song. Like many artists, I have experienced moments of questioning my own abilities and the choices I’ve made in pursuing my passion. It can be disheartening to witness the lack of recognition and the constant struggle to make a name for oneself.

However, the song also serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward, regardless of the obstacles. It conveys the importance of staying true to oneself and not succumbing to external pressures or societal expectations. While the journey may be tough and success may not come easily, it is the unwavering belief in our art that fuels our determination to keep going.

In conclusion, “Streets Ahead (If You Have to Ask, You’re Streets Behind)” by Settle Your Scores is a powerful anthem that explores the challenges faced by artists who pursue their passion against societal expectations. The lyrics capture the frustrations, self-doubt, and determination that come hand in hand with dedicating oneself to an unconventional path. Settle Your Scores delivers a relatable and inspiring message, reminding us to stay true to ourselves and not give up on our dreams, no matter how difficult the journey may be.