The song "Atlanta" by John Mark McMillan is a heartfelt and reflective track that explores themes of love, appreciation, and the pursuit of passion. The lyrics paint a picture of the singer's life and experiences in Atlanta, Georgia. The song begins with the singer acknowledging the blessings in their life, stating "We've got what we want right now." They express their desire to never take their partner for granted and to always feel the hunger and heat of their love. As the song progresses, the singer reminisces about a particular moment when it was snowing in Atlanta. They recall carrying their loved one out of a place called Atlantic Station while they sang to the abandoned area. The singer is moved by this experience, describing how the loved one's singing touched them deeply and how they had never heard those runs (vocal melodic embellishments) before. Throughout the song, the singer emphasizes their gratitude for their partner and their fear of losing that connection. They don't want to take their loved one for granted and express a desire to continue living passionately, particularly under the lights of Atlanta. The repetition of the phrase "If you don't know by now" suggests that communication and understanding within the relationship are vital. The song ends with a sense of urgency, as the singer reminds themselves to get down off of the notion that love and fulfillment can be taken for granted. Overall, "Atlanta" is a beautiful and introspective song that captures the essence of appreciating love and living life to the fullest. It serves as a reminder to cherish and value the people and experiences that bring meaning and joy to our lives.
