Counting Stars

R5's 'Counting Stars' is a song that delves into the internal conflict between following one's dreams and the societal pressure to pursue material wealth. The lyrics express a yearning for a life that is rich in experiences and achievements rather than in monetary terms. The repeated line 'Lately, I've been, I've been losing sleep, dreaming about the things that we could be' suggests a restless desire to realize one's potential and the frustration of being held back by the need to make money ('counting dollars').

The song's chorus, 'Said, no more counting dollars, we'll be counting stars,' serves as a powerful metaphor for shifting focus from accumulating wealth to seeking out life's intangible treasures, such as joy, fulfillment, and love. This sentiment is further emphasized by the lines 'Everything that kills me makes me feel alive' and 'Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly,' which suggest that the struggles and challenges faced while pursuing one's true passions are paradoxically what make life feel more vibrant and meaningful.

The repeated verses 'Take that money, watch it burn, sing in the river, the lessons are learnt' imply a rejection of materialism and a belief in the transformative power of embracing life's lessons and experiences. The song resonates with listeners who feel trapped in the cycle of working for money at the expense of their dreams and happiness. It's a call to break free from societal expectations and to prioritize personal growth and fulfillment over financial gain.