OneRepublic is an American pop-rock band that has won the hearts of audiences worldwide with their anthemic hits, heartfelt lyrics, and diverse musical influences.
The band is fronted by lead vocalist and principal songwriter Ryan Tedder, a prolific talent known for crafting songs for numerous other major artists.
They gained widespread attention with their 2007 debut album, Dreaming Out Loud, which featured the global smash hit “Apologize.”
About the Song
“Counting Stars” is one of OneRepublic’s most recognizable hits, which is part of their third studio album, Native.
Written by lead vocalist Ryan Tedder, the song combines pop, folk, and dance music elements, resulting in a genre-defying track that became a global sensation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | March 25, 2013 |
| Album | Native |
| Writers | Ryan Tedder |
| Producers | Ryan Tedder, Noel Zancanella |
Counting Stars Lyrics by OneRepublic
Intro
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be countin’ stars
Yeah, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Verse 1
I see this life like a swingin’ vine
Swing my heart across the line
In my face is flashin’ signs
Seek it out and ye shall find
Refrain
The old, but I’m not that old
Young, but I’m not that bold
And I don’t think the world is sold
On just doin’ what we’re told
Pre-Chorus
I feel somethin’ so right doin’ the wrong thing
And I feel something so wrong doin’ the right thing
I couldn’t lie, couldn’t lie, couldn’t lie
Everything that kills me makes me feel alive
Chorus
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be, we’ll be countin’ stars”, yeah
Verse 2
I feel your love, and I feel it burn
Down this river, every turn
“Hope” is our four-letter word
Make that money, watch it burn
Refrain
Old, but I’m not that old
Young, but I’m not that bold
And I don’t think the world is sold
On just doin’ what we’re told
Pre-Chorus
And I feel somethin’ so wrong doin’ the right thing
I couldn’t lie, couldn’t lie, couldn’t lie
Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly
Chorus
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Bridge
Oh, take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Pre-Chorus
Everything that kills me makes me feel alive
Chorus
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Lately, I been, I been losin’ sleep
Dreamin’ about the things that we could be
But, baby, I been, I been prayin’ hard
Said, “No more countin’ dollars, we’ll be, we’ll be countin’ stars”
Outro
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
Take that money, watch it burn
Sink in the river the lessons I learned
OneRepublic Live Performances
1. Counting Stars (Vevo Presents: Live at Festhalle, Frankfurt)
2. Counting Stars (Live From iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2023)
Similar Songs Like Counting Stars
If you’re looking for songs similar to “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic, here are a few tracks from the same band that share a similar anthemic and emotional feel:
- “I Lived“: A life-affirming anthem with a soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics. The song captures a spirit of gratitude and resilience, making it a perfect follow-up to “Counting Stars.”
- “Secrets“: A deeply reflective track that blends cinematic strings with raw emotion. Its lyrical vulnerability and uplifting melodies resonate well with fans of “Counting Stars.”
- “Good Life“: A sunny, optimistic tune that celebrates the simple joys of life. With its catchy hooks and carefree vibe, “Good Life” pairs beautifully with the themes of hope and determination found in “Counting Stars.”
- “Love Runs Out“: A high-energy, soul-infused track that showcases OneRepublic’s knack for combining powerful vocals with driving rhythms. The intensity of this song matches the infectious spirit of “Counting Stars.”
Similar Artists Like OneRepublic
And, if you enjoy OneRepublic’s blend of emotional lyrics, anthemic choruses, and pop-rock influences, here are a few similar artists you might like:
- Coldplay
Genre: Alternative Rock, Pop Rock
Top Albums: Parachutes (2000), A Rush of Blood to the Head (2002), Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends (2008) and Everyday Life (2019) - Imagine Dragons
Genre: Pop Rock, Electropop, Alternative Rock
Top Albums: Night Visions (2012), Smoke + Mirrors (2015), Evolve (2017) and Mercury – Act 1 (2021) - The Script
Genre: Pop Rock, Soft Rock
Top Albums: The Script (2008), Science & Faith (2010), No Sound Without Silence (2014) and Sunsets & Full Moons (2019) - Maroon 5
Genre: Pop Rock, Funk Pop
Top Albums: Songs About Jane (2002), It Won’t Be Soon Before Long (2007), Overexposed (2012) and Jordi (2021)
Behind The Scenes
1. Counting Stars Hit 3 Billion Views! New BTS Clip
2. ‘Counting Stars’ & ‘I Don’t Wanna Wait’ | Behind the Song
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Members of OneRepublic?
The band currently consists of Ryan Tedder (lead vocals), Zach Filkins (guitar), Drew Brown (guitar), Eddie Fisher (drums), and Brent Kutzle (bass, cello).
When did OneRepublic Form?
OneRepublic was formed in 2002 in Colorado Springs.
What Genre of Music does OneRepublic Play?
Their music blends elements of pop, rock and electronic influences, often described as pop rock or alternative pop.
