Hozier’s Haunting “Like Real People Do”: A Live Performance Analysis

Hozier, the Irish singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and introspective lyrics, has captivated audiences for a decade. To commemorate his 10th anniversary, a live performance of “Like Real People Do,” recorded in County Wicklow, was released. This performance offers a unique glimpse into the song’s raw emotion and haunting beauty. The song featuring NATURE can be found here. Let’s explore the nuances of this captivating rendition.

The Wicklow Performance: A Landscape of Sound

County Wicklow, with its stunning natural beauty, serves as the perfect backdrop for Hozier’s music. The rolling hills and serene atmosphere complement the song’s introspective nature. This live version seems more intimate, stripped down to its emotional core. The setting amplifies the rawness and vulnerability of the performance, drawing listeners deeper into the song’s narrative.

Unpacking the Lyrics: Mystery and Acceptance

The lyrics of “Like Real People Do” weave a tale of mystery, acceptance, and perhaps even a touch of darkness.

Stanza 1: Unsettling Questions

“I had a thought, dear / However scary / About that night / The bugs and the dirt.”

The song opens with unsettling imagery. “Bugs and the dirt” evoke a sense of decay and unease. What is the significance of this ominous beginning?

“Why were you digging? / What did you bury / Before those hands pulled me / From the earth?“

These lines pose questions that hint at a hidden past. The speaker is curious about the other person’s actions, implying a secret or buried truth.

The Chorus: A Pact of Silence

“I will not ask you where you came from / I will not ask and neither should you.“

The chorus introduces a deliberate choice: to remain ignorant. This pact of silence suggests a fear of what might be revealed. Is it better to not know some things?

“Honey just put your sweet lips on my lips / We should just kiss like real people do.“

This juxtaposition of dark lyrics with a desire for normalcy is striking. The speaker yearns for a simple, human connection despite the underlying mystery.

Stanza 2: Recognizing the Past

“I knew that look dear / Eyes always seeking / Was there in someone / That dug long ago.“

The speaker recognizes a shared quality, a familiar look in the other person’s eyes. This suggests a connection to a past, perhaps a shared experience.

“So I will not ask you / Why you were creeping / In some sad way I already know.“

These lines reveal a sense of resignation. The speaker already suspects the truth and chooses to avoid direct confrontation.

Chorus Repetition: Reinforcing the Theme

The repeated chorus emphasizes the central theme of acceptance. By choosing not to ask questions, the speaker embraces the unknown aspects of their partner. This repetition reinforces the idea of willful ignorance as a form of connection.

Themes and Interpretations

“Like Real People Do” is rich in thematic content. Here are some interpretations to consider:

• Mystery of the Unknown: The song explores the allure and fear of the unknown, leaving listeners to ponder what secrets might be hidden.
• Acceptance and Forgiveness: Does love require accepting a person’s past, even if it’s shrouded in mystery? The song suggests that forgiveness might be implied in the decision not to delve into the past.
• The “Real People” Paradox: What does it mean to “kiss like real people do” within the context of the song? Does it imply that “real people” often choose to ignore uncomfortable truths for the sake of connection?

Hozier’s Vocal Performance: Emotion Unveiled

Hozier’s vocal delivery is a masterclass in conveying emotion. He emphasizes certain phrases, using inflections and dynamics to amplify the song’s impact. His voice builds in intensity, capturing the listener’s attention. In this live setting, the raw quality of his vocals enhances the emotional depth. For more of Hozier’s artistry, check out this Hozier music profile.

Musicality: A Dark and Light Blend

The instrumentation creates a haunting atmosphere. The music complements the lyrical themes of mystery and acceptance, adding layers of meaning to the song. The melody, harmony, and rhythm work together to build tension and release.

Connecting to Hozier’s Oeuvre

“Like Real People Do” resonates with similar themes found throughout Hozier’s discography. His exploration of love, spirituality, and human nature is evident here. The song fits seamlessly into his larger body of work, showcasing his unique artistic vision. Also, there are 10th anniversary music editions to shop here. Fans can also shop the 10th anniversary merch range here.

“Like Real People Do” featuring NATURE: A Collaboration

The release of “Like Real People Do” featuring NATURE adds a fresh dimension to the song. This collaboration brings a new perspective to the track, blending Hozier’s signature sound with NATURE’s unique artistry.

Conclusion

Hozier’s “Like Real People Do (Live in County Wicklow)” is a compelling performance that invites listeners to contemplate themes of mystery, acceptance, and the complexities of human connection. The live setting enhances the song’s emotional impact, showcasing Hozier’s vocal prowess and the song’s haunting beauty. What are your interpretations of this song? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Fans interested in staying up to date on Hozier’s latest releases and tour dates can sign up for Hozier’s mailing list here. For more of Hozier’s content, fans can watch more videos here.