Barely Breathing
Barely Breathing

Duncan Sheik - Barely Breathing Lyrics

Ever felt like you're giving everything to someone who just doesn't seem to care? This song captures that feeling perfectly. It tells the story of someone stuck in a one-sided relationship, where they're constantly left confused and hurt by their partner's… Read more

Pop
Jun 4, 1996
738
Barely Breathing Music Video

Barely Breathing Lyrics

I know what you're doing, I see it all too clear
I only taste the saline when I kiss away your tears
You really had me goin', wishing on a star
The black holes that surround you are heavier by far
I believed in your confusion, you were so completely torn
It must've been that yesterday was the day that I was born
There's not much to examine, nothing left to hide
You really can't be serious
If you have to ask me why I say goodbye

'Cause I am barely breathing
And I can't find the air
Don't know who I'm kidding
Imagining you care
And I could stand here waiting
A fool for another day
I don't suppose it's worth the price
You're worth the price, the price that I would pay

And everyone keeps asking, "What's it all about?"
I used to be so certain and I can't figure out
What is this attraction?
I only feel the pain
Nothing left to reason and only you to blame
Will it ever change?

'Cause I am barely breathing
And I can't find the air
Don't know who I'm kidding
Imagining you care
And I could stand here waiting
A fool for another day
I don't suppose it's worth the price
You're worth the price, the price that I would pay

But I'm thinking it over anyway
I'm thinking it over anyway

I've come to find I may never know
Your changing mind, is it friend or foe?
I rise above or sink below
With every time you come and go
Please don't come and go

'Cause I am barely breathing
And I can't find the air
Don't know who I'm kidding
Imagining you care
And I could stand here waiting
A fool for another day
I don't suppose it's worth the price
You're worth the price, the price that I would pay

But I'm thinking it over anyway
I'm thinking it over anyway

And I know what you're doin'
I see it all too clear

Writer(s): Duncan Sheik
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

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What is the Meaning of Barely Breathing?

Ever felt like you're giving everything to someone who just doesn't seem to care? This song captures that feeling perfectly. It tells the story of someone stuck in a one-sided relationship, where they're constantly left confused and hurt by their partner's mixed signals. Despite knowing deep down that it's not worth the heartache, they struggle to let go, clinging to the hope that things might change. The lyrics poignantly express the pain of loving someone who keeps you hanging by a thread, leaving you barely breathing as you try to navigate the emotional turmoil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What accolades did 'Barely Breathing' achieve?

    'Barely Breathing' was highly successful on the radio across various formats, leading to its long presence on playlists. It won a BMI award for the Most Played Song of the Year in 1997. Additionally, Duncan Sheik received a Grammy nomination for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for this song but lost to Elton John's 'Candle In The Wind 1997.'

  2. How long did 'Barely Breathing' stay on the Hot 100 chart?

    'Barely Breathing' had an impressive run on the Billboard Hot 100, staying on the chart for 55 weeks. This makes Duncan Sheik one of the biggest one-hit wonders of all time in terms of single longevity on this chart.

  3. Who directed the music video for 'Barely Breathing', and what was unique about its production?

    The music video for 'Barely Breathing' was directed by Thom Oliphant, known primarily for his work with country artists like Dixie Chicks at that time. The video was shot at the Brooklyn Navy Yard during its renovations and featured unique cross process color treatments influenced by cinematographer Peter Selesnick's admiration for 1960s color work.

  4. Has 'Barely Breathing' been featured in any television shows?

    'Barely Breathing' has been used in several TV series, enhancing its cultural footprint. It appeared in episodes of 'Party of Five,' 'Cold Case,' and notably in an episode of 'Girls,' where it played as part of a conceptual art installation involving disturbing sounds and visuals, reflecting a theme of emotional turmoil.

  5. Did Duncan Sheik grow tired of performing 'Barely Breathing'?

    Yes, Duncan Sheik himself admitted to growing weary of performing 'Barely Breathing.' Despite its success, he expressed a desire to move forward with new projects and explore other musical directions beyond just repeating his hit song during performances and interviews.

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