About the song
“Inside Out” is a poignant and thought-provoking song by the Traveling Wilburys, a British-American supergroup comprising some of the most iconic figures in rock music. Released in 1990 as part of their album Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3, this song is a testament to the band’s ability to craft music that not only resonates with listeners but also sparks important conversations. Written by all four members of the band – Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and George Harrison – “Inside Out” is a powerful reflection on the state of the world and the urgent need for environmental action.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world turned yellow, a stark and haunting metaphor for the devastating impact of human neglect on the planet. The song’s message is both personal and universal, speaking to the individual’s role in shaping the future of the planet. Recorded at a private studio in Bel Air and completed at George Harrison’s Friar Park studio in England, “Inside Out” is a masterclass in songwriting, with each member of the band bringing their unique perspective and talent to the table.
The song’s release as a promotional single in the United States and commercial single in other countries was met with critical acclaim, with the track peaking at number 16 on Billboard’s Album Rock Tracks chart and number 50 on Canada’s RPM chart. “Inside Out” is a powerful reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the need for collective action to protect our planet. As a song, it is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today, serving as a powerful call to action for a more sustainable future.
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Lyrics
Look out your window
That grass ain’t green
It’s kinda yellow
See what I mean
Look up your chimney
The sky ain’t blue
It’s kinda yellow
You know it’s true
And it’s so hard to figure what it’s all about
When your outside’s in (inside out)
And your downside’s up (upside down)
Yeah, your upside’s right (right side up)
Yeah, don’t it make you wanna twist and shout
When you’re inside out?
Look down your drain pipe
What color do you see?
It’s got to be yellow
Don’t try to fool me
And don’t it make you wanna twist and shout?
When your outside’s in (inside out)
And your downside’s up (upside down)
Yeah, your upside’s right (right side up)
Yeah, don’t it make you wanna twist and shout
When you’re inside out?
Be careful where you’re walking
You might step in something rough
Be careful when you’re talking
And saying all that stuff
Take care when you are breathing
Something’s funny in the air
There’s somethings I’m not saying
‘Bout what’s happening out there
It’s inside out
Look into the future
With your mystic crystal ball
See if it ain’t yellow
See if it’s there at all
Ain’t no shadow of a doubt (ah-ah)
Don’t it make you wanna twist and shout?
When your outside’s in (inside out)
And your downside’s up (upside down)
Yeah, your upside’s right (right side up)
Yeah, don’t it make you wanna twist and shout
When you’re inside out?
Inside out, right side up
Yeah, don’t it make you wanna twist and shout
When you’re inside out?
Inside out
Inside out