The Animal Song – Savage Garden [1999]

“The Animal Song” is a song by Savage Garden, released in February 1999. The song was written for the soundtrack of the film The Other Sister, but also appeared on their second studio album, Affirmation, as well as their compilation album, Truly Madly Completely: The Best of Savage Garden. It was the band’s first song to be produced by Walter Afanasieff, a producer well known for his work with Mariah Carey. Walter would later produce the group’s Affirmation album, and also Darren Hayes’ first solo album, Spin.

“The Animal Song” Lyrics

When superstars and cannonballs are running through your head
A television freak show cops and robbers everywhere
Subway makes me nervous, people pushing me too far
I’ve got to break away
So take my hand now

‘Cause I want to live like animals
Careless and free like animals
I want to live
I want to run through the jungle
The wind in my hair and the sand at my feet

I’ve been having difficulties keeping to myself
Feelings and emotions better left up on the shelf
Animals and children tell the truth, they never lie
Which one is more human
There’s a thought, now you decide

Compassion in the jungle
Compassion in your hands, yeah
Would you like to make a run for it
Would you like to take my hand, yeah

Sometimes this life can get you down
It’s so confusing
There’s so many rules to follow
And I feel it
‘Cause I just run away in my mind

Superstars and cannonballs running through your head
Television freak show cops and robbers everywhere
Animals and children tell the truth, they never lie
Which one is more human
There’s a thought, now you decide

Compassion in the jungle
Compassion in your hands, yeah
Would you like to make a run for it
Would you like to take my hand, yeah