Corey kent’s “Measure” Captures the Immeasurable: A Deep Dive into Lyrics & Meaning
Nashville, TN – Corey Kent’s poignant ballad, “Measure,” co-written with Max McNown, is resonating with listeners by articulating a universal truth: the most valuable aspects of life defy quantification. Released as a standout track, the song isn’t about tangible metrics but the weight of memories, love, and legacy – themes striking a chord with audiences navigating loss, appreciating relationships, and contemplating life’s purpose.
The song’s power lies in its relatable exploration of what truly matters beyond material possessions or quantifiable achievements. “You can add up all the acres or the square feet of a house / the inch marks on the doorframe are probably painted over now / But everything about back home that you still treasure / You can’t measure,” Kent sings, immediately establishing the central theme. This sentiment extends to experiences – “12 ounces in a cold one, 24 cold ones in a case / We found out that one too many was the three or four we drank / And how much we all laugh when we get back together / You can’t measure” – highlighting the intangible value of shared moments.
“measure” repeatedly returns to the deeply personal experience of missing his grandfather, triggered by simple acts like fishing. “Like how much I miss my grandpa / Every time that I’m gone fishing / How heaven seems so far away / But it isn’t.” This vulnerability anchors the song’s broader message,illustrating how grief and remembrance are inherently immeasurable. The chorus offers a powerful counterpoint: “If you wanna know how much I love her / Just add up all the days left in forever.”
The lyrics cleverly contrast the desire for concrete understanding with the reality of emotional depth. “It’s not an 8×10 / It’s a memory in a frame / It’s not how you spend your money / It’s how you spend your days / And how much time you lost when you knew better.” This reinforces the idea that true wealth isn’t found in possessions but in lived experiences and mindful choices.
The song culminates in a stark reflection on mortality. ”Yeah, the measure of a man (yeah) six feet in the grave / It ain’t how long he lived / Naw, it’s what he did with the dash between them dates.” This final verse shifts the focus from personal loss to a broader consideration of legacy, suggesting that a life’s worth isn’t defined by its length but by its impact.
