Song Lyrics

Foster The People’s “Pumped Up Kicks” Lyrics

Foster The People is an American band known for their catchy pop tunes and strong vocal performances.

Their hit “Pumped Up Kicks” gained worldwide fame, which topped the charts and earned them critical acclaim, marking a major achievement in their singing career.

About the Song

“Pumped Up Kicks” is a catchy tune with upbeat sounds that mask its dark, hidden lyrics about troubled youth. Its simple words and memorable beat made it a standout hit for Foster The People.

Category	Detail
Released	Oct 14, 2010
Album	Torches
Writers	Mark Foster
Producers	Mark Foster

“Pumped Up Kicks” Lyrics By Foster The People

[Verse 1]

Robert’s got a quick hand
He’ll look around the room, he won’t tell you his plan
He’s got a rolled cigarette
Hanging out his mouth, he’s a cowboy kid
Yeah, he found a six-shooter gun
In his dad’s closet with a box of fun things
I don’t even know what
But he’s coming for you, yeah, he’s coming for you, wait

[Chorus]

[Verse 2]

Daddy works a long day
He be coming home late, and he’s coming home late
And he’s bringing me a surprise
‘Cause dinner’s in the kitchen, and it’s packed in ice
I’ve waited for a long time
Yeah, the sleight of my hand is now a quick-pull trigger
I reason with my cigarette
And say, “Your hair’s on fire, you must’ve lost your wits,” yeah

[Chorus]

[Bridge]

Run, run, run, run
Ru-ru-ru-run, run, run
Ru-ru-ru-ru-run, run, run, run
Ru-ru-ru-run
Run, run, ru-run, run

[Chorus]

All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run, outrun my gun
All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run faster than my bullet
All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run, outrun my gun
All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run faster than my bullet
All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run, outrun my gun
All the other kids with the pumped-up kicks
You better run, better run faster than my bullet

“Pumped Up Kicks” Live Performance 21 October 2011

Similar Songs Like “Pumped Up Kicks” By Foster The People

If “Pumped Up Kicks” catches your attention with its upbeat sound and hidden deep message, these tracks will give you that same blend of catchy rhythms and thoughtful, sometimes dark, lyrics.

“Helena Beat”: A high-energy song with an upbeat rhythm and deep lyrics about struggle.
“Houdini”: A catchy track with a playful beat that goes through themes of escape and pressure.
“Don’t Stop (Color on the Walls)”: A fun, fast-paced song with a rebellious and carefree vibe.
“Coming of Age”: A nostalgic track that reflects on change and personal growth with smooth melodies.
“Sit Next to Me”: A laid-back song with a mellow groove about connection and longing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is “Pumped Up Kicks” So Popular?

Its catchy beat, combined with its thought-provoking lyrics, made it a standout track that quickly gained widespread attention and radio play.

Is “Pumped Up Kicks” a Controversial Song?

Yes, the song’s lyrics, which touch on themes of violence and mental health, stirred debate about its appropriate subject matter.

Was “Pumped Up Kicks” a Hit?

Yes, it became a major hit, reaching the top 10 on multiple charts and gaining critical and commercial success.

What is the Meaning Behind The Lyrics of “Pumped Up Kicks”?

The lyrics highlight the inner turmoil and mental struggles of a young person, with the upbeat music contrasting the serious subject matter.

Casey Monroe

Casey focuses on writing about singers and vocal performers. They've been in this field for about 8 years. Casey's articles look at both the technical side of singing and the stories behind the artists. They studied music performance in college and worked as a vocal coach for a while. This background helps Casey explain complex singing ideas in ways that are easy to grasp. Casey likes to talk with singers from different genres to get a wide view of the singing world. When not writing, they often go to concerts and music festivals to stay up-to-date with live performances.

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