englishRock
Both Sides of the Story Lyrics
by Phil Collins
24 views • Published on Sep 30, 2026
Both Sides of the Story Lyrics
'Though we might hate to admit it, there are always two sides to every story...'
Find yourself in the gutter in a lonely part of town
where death waits in the darkness with a weapon to cut some stranger down
sleeping with an empty bottle, he's a sad and an empty hearted man
all he needs is a job, and a little respect, so he can get out while he can
We always need to hear both sides of the story
A neighbourhood peace is shattered it's the middle of the night
young faces hide in the shadows, while they watch their mother and father fight
he says she's been unfaithful, she says her love for him has gone
and the brother shrugs to his sister and says "looks like it's just us from now on"
We always need to hear both sides of the story
And the lights are all on, the world is watching now
people looking for truth, we must not fail them now
be sure, before we close our eyes
don't walk away from here
'til you hear both sides
Here we are all gathered in what seems to be the centre of the storm
neighbours once friendly now stand each side of the line that has been drawn
they've been fighting here for years, but now there's killing on the streets
while small coffins are lined up sadly, now united in defeat
We always need to hear both sides of the story
And the lights are all on, the world is watching now
people looking for truth, we must not fail them now
be sure, before we close our eyes
don't walk away from here
'til you see both sides
White man turns the corner, finds himself within a different world
ghetto kid grabs his shoulder, throws him up against the wall
he says "would you respect me if I didn't have this gun
'cos without it, I don't get it, and that's why I carry one"
We always need to hear both sides of the story
Meaning of Both Sides of the Story
“Both Sides of the Story” powerfully explores the devastating consequences of misunderstanding and entrenched conflict, urging listeners to seek truth through empathy. Phil Collins’ signature melancholic tone underscores a narrative depicting a fractured community consumed by accusations, violence, and ultimately, loss. The song paints a bleak picture of a neighborhood torn apart by a marital dispute, highlighting how assumptions and lack of communication escalate into tragedy – symbolized by the “empty bottle” man and the rising death toll. Collins passionately argues that we must resist jumping to conclusions and actively strive to understand every perspective before judgment is passed. The repeated refrain, "We always need to hear both sides of the story,” acts as a desperate plea for humanity to confront its biases and prevent further destruction, warning against ignoring vital information until it’s too late.
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both sides of the story lyricsphil collins lyricsboth sides of the story phil collins lyricsphil collins songs
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