Sturgill Simpson’s “Just Let Go” Meaning

“Just Let Go” is a song by Sturgill Simpson that expresses his Buddhist influences and beliefs. The song mentions the Bardo, which is a state of existence between death and rebirth, and the 49 divine day vacation, which is the time spent in the Bardo. The song also reflects his idea that we’re all this universal shared consciousness, and that he found love in letting go of his ego.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Just Let Go” are introspective and raw. The song is an autobiographical journey, with Sturgill Simpson laying bare his emotions and his struggles. The song is divided into three verses, each of which explores different aspects of Simpson’s life.

Verse 1

The first verse of the song begins with the line, “Woke up today and decided to kill my ego. It ain’t ever done me no good no how. Gonna break through and blast off to the Bardo. In them flowers of light far away from the here and now.” The line conveys the sense of frustration and disappointment that comes with trying to hold on to one’s ego. Simpson is saying that he is trying to let go of his ego and embrace the present moment.

Verse 2

The second verse of the song opens with the line “Taking a 49 divine day vacation from reality and all else in between. Gonna transmigrate to my destination far beyond time in an eternal dream.” Simpson is referencing the Bardo, which is a state of existence between death and rebirth. He is saying that he is trying to let go of his ego and embrace the present moment.

Verse 3

The third verse of the song opens with the line “Oh my God it’s so beautiful. Everything is a part of me. It’s so hard looking through all the lies made of wool. But if you close your eyes it becomes so easy to see.” Simpson is saying that he has found love in letting go of his ego. He is saying that he has found peace in accepting things as they are.

The Significance of the Title

The title “Just Let Go” symbolizes the importance of letting go of one’s ego. It represents the metaphorical journey of an individual who is trying to make sense of the world around them. The song is an introspective journey, with Sturgill Simpson laying bare his emotions and his struggles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired Sturgill Simpson to write “Just Let Go”?
- Sturgill Simpson drew inspiration from his own personal journey when writing “Just Let Go.” The song reflects moments of self-reflection and transformation that Simpson experienced in his own life. He has mentioned that the song is a reflection of his own struggles with letting go of expectations and societal pressures, allowing himself to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.
What are the main themes explored in “Just Let Go”?
- “Just Let Go” delves into themes of personal growth, acceptance, and the pursuit of inner peace. Simpson beautifully captures the raw emotions experienced when one feels lost and alone in the world.
How does Sturgill Simpson’s unique sound enhance the impact of the song?
- Sturgill Simpson’s unique sound adds another layer of depth to the emotions conveyed in the lyrics. The somber tones of the guitar and haunting vocals create a melancholic atmosphere that enhances the listener’s understanding of the pain and heartbreak depicted in the song.
What role does the instrumentation play in conveying the song’s emotions?
- The instrumentation in “Just Let Go” adds another layer of depth to the emotions conveyed in the lyrics. The somber tones of the guitar and haunting vocals create a melancholic atmosphere that enhances the listener’s understanding of the pain and heartbreak depicted in the song.
How does “Just Let Go” resonate with listeners?
- “Just Let Go” resonates with listeners on a deep and personal level due to its relatable themes of personal growth, acceptance, and the pursuit of inner peace. The song’s honest portrayal of these emotions strikes a chord with those who have experienced similar struggles in their own lives.

In conclusion, “Just Let Go” by Sturgill Simpson is a song that explores themes of personal growth, acceptance, and the pursuit of inner peace. The song is an introspective journey, with Sturgill Simpson laying bare his emotions and his struggles. The song resonates with listeners on a deep and personal level due to its relatable themes and its honest portrayal of these emotions.