The Bottom Line
For the lead single from his album Continuum, John Mayer chose the generational social commentary of "Waiting on the World to Change." The sentiments ring true and they are bolstered by Mayer's usual high standard of instrumental backing.
Listen to "Waiting on the World to Change."
Pros
- Heartfelt lyrics surveying the current world political situation
- Pleasing gently rocking melody line
- Mayer's immaculate instrumental arrangement
Cons
- Lyrics can come off as a bit too simple
Description
- Gently rocking backup
- Mayer's inviting vocals
- Lyrics that strike an intellectual chord
Guide Review - John Mayer - Waiting on the World to Change
John Mayer has explained in interviews that "Waiting on the World to Change," the lead single from his album Continuum, is an attempt to explain political inaction in his generation. The words are poignant and ring true as they describe a wide swath of the American public rendered apathetic due to a sense of being powerless to do anything about current problems.
The hope present in the song comes from a faith that things will someday change, and Mayer's generation, in their late 20's and early 30's, will one day take the reins of power. There are a few hints as well as to what his generation will do when they take key leadership roles. War will come to an end and truth will rule the communication of information.
The lyrical intensity of "Waiting on the World to Change" is backed with immaculate instrumentation echoing the pop side of Mayer's idol Stevie Ray Vaughan. This song is a triumphant return to the pop world by Mayer, and it will ring true with listeners well beyond his generational target.
