Take Me to Church Lyrics, Get Immersed with the Lyrics
by Sona
Updated Jul 09, 2023
Take Me to Church Song
"Take Me to Church" is the debut single by Hozier, an Irish singer-songwriter. Initially released on 13 September 2013 as part of his self-titled extended play, it later became the opening track on his 2014 debut album, also titled "Hozier." The song's creation took place during a challenging period for the artist, who wrote and recorded it in the attic of his parents' home in County Wicklow.
"Take Me to Church" is a soulful mid-tempo composition with lyrics that utilize religious references to depict a romantic relationship in the face of discrimination by the Church. The music video, directed by Brendan Canty, Emmet O'Brien, and Conal Thomson, premiered in September 2013. Filmed in black and white, it portrays a same-sex romantic relationship and the subsequent homophobic backlash.
The video gained significant attention upon its release on YouTube and went viral, leading to Hozier's signing with Columbia Records US and Island Records UK. The song achieved remarkable global success in 2014, topping charts in 12 countries and reaching the top 10 in 21 others. It also received critical acclaim for its powerful message.
Benefitting from platforms like Shazam and Spotify, "Take Me to Church" became a sensation on rock radio in the US, spending 23 consecutive weeks at the top of the Hot Rock Songs chart—a record tied with Imagine Dragons' "Radioactive" at the time.
The song later crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number two in December 2014. It received a Grammy Award nomination for Song of the Year at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards and has been certified Diamond in the US, signifying its immense popularity and impact.
Take Me to Church Lyrics
My lover's got humor
She's the giggle at a funeral
Knows everybody's disapproval
I should've worshiped her sooner
If the Heavens ever did speak
She's the last true mouthpiece
Every Sunday's getting more bleak
A fresh poison each week
"We were born sick", you heard them say it
My church offers no absolutes
She tells me, "Worship in the bedroom"
The only Heaven I'll be sent to
Is when I'm alone with you
I was born sick, but I love it
Command me to be well
A-, Amen, Amen, Amen
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife
Offer me that deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife
Offer me that deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
If I'm a pagan of the good times
My lover's the sunlight
To keep the Goddess on my side
She demands a sacrifice
Drain the whole sea
Get something shiny
Something meaty for the main course
That's a fine looking high horse
What you got in the stable?
We've a lot of starving faithful
That looks tasty
That looks plenty
This is hungry work
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins so you can sharpen your knife
Offer me my deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins so you can sharpen your knife
Offer me my deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
No masters or kings when the ritual begins
There is no sweeter innocence than our gentle sin
In the madness and soil of that sad earthly scene
Only then I am human
Only then I am clean
Oh, oh, Amen, Amen, Amen
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife
Offer me that deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
Take me to church
I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies
I'll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife
Offer me that deathless death
Good God, let me give you my life
Meaning of Take Me to Church Lyrics
"Take Me to Church" is a powerful and introspective song by Hozier that delves into themes of love, religion, and self-discovery. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a complex relationship where the protagonist finds solace and meaning outside of traditional religious institutions. The song challenges societal norms and explores the idea of worshiping love and human connection as a form of spirituality.
The lyrics suggest that the protagonist's lover brings light and happiness into their life, acting as a source of salvation and fulfillment. The religious imagery juxtaposes the dogma and disapproval the protagonist faces from traditional institutions, emphasizing the notion that love and acceptance can be found outside of religious confines.
The song also touches upon themes of self-acceptance and embracing one's true nature. The lines "I was born sick, but I love it" reflect a sense of embracing one's flaws and desires, despite societal judgment. The protagonist rejects the notion of being judged or condemned for their inherent nature, instead finding liberation and authenticity in their love.
Ultimately, "Take Me to Church" encourages listeners to challenge traditional beliefs, embrace their true selves, and find spiritual connection through love and acceptance. It serves as an anthem of defiance against oppressive systems and a celebration of love as a powerful and transformative force.
About Hozier
Andrew John Hozier-Byrne, professionally known as Hozier, is an Irish musician, singer, and songwriter renowned for his unique blend of folk, soul, and blues. His music often delves into profound religious and literary themes, captivating audiences worldwide. Hozier's breakthrough came with the release of his debut single "Take Me to Church," a multi-platinum certified hit in numerous countries.
Hailing from County Wicklow, Ireland, Hozier unveiled his debut EP in 2013, featuring the chart-topping track "Take Me to Church," which resonated strongly with rock radio listeners in the United States and climbed to number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The subsequent release of his self-titled debut studio album in September 2014 earned him widespread critical acclaim.
The album achieved an impressive 6× platinum certification in Ireland and attained multi-platinum status in various countries. In September 2018, Hozier delighted fans with the EP titled "Nina Cried Power," showcasing the title track as a single that soared to the top of the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart.
Following this success, he presented his highly anticipated second album, "Wasteland, Baby!" in March 2019, which made a triumphant debut at number one on both the Irish Albums Chart and the Billboard 200. The album's popularity continued to soar, receiving gold certification in the United States.
Take Me to Church Lyrics: FAQs
The lyrics of "Take Me to Church" explore themes of love, religion, and self-acceptance, challenging traditional institutions and highlighting the power of human connection.
"Take Me to Church" was written and performed by Irish musician Hozier (Andrew Hozier-Byrne).
Hozier has mentioned that the song was influenced by his own experiences and observations of the oppression faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland and the negative impact of institutionalized religion.
Yes, "Take Me to Church" achieved widespread popularity and critical acclaim. It was nominated for the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and has been certified multi-platinum in several countries.
The song encourages listeners to question societal norms, find solace and meaning outside of traditional religious institutions, embrace their true selves, and celebrate love and acceptance as a form of spirituality.