The song "Tonight" by Upchurch revolves around the artist's feelings and experiences in his hometown of Nashville, also known as Music City. Upchurch expresses his desire to set the city on fire, not literally, but metaphorically. He wants to make a significant impact and be recognized for his talent and authenticity. The lyrics reflect Upchurch's frustration with the music industry and how he feels misunderstood and excluded in his own hometown. He talks about the city being filled with "snakes" and a feeling of sickness. Despite being born in Nashville, he feels like an outsider and is not accepted by the industry or the people. Upchurch mentions how he doesn't fit into the typical Nashville scene, where people go to bars, get drunk, and listen to country music. Instead, he finds solace in observing the world around him, sitting in Centennial Park, and reflecting on life. He feels judged for his uniqueness and believes people gossip about him, perceiving him as "cloudy." The artist criticizes the music industry's obsession with money and how it prioritizes profit over genuine expression. He mentions the pressure to conform to a certain image, wearing boots to prove his roots. However, he asserts that his true identity and love for his city go beyond superficial stereotypes. Towards the end of the song, Upchurch emphasizes his loyalty to Nashville and his distaste for the commercial side of the music industry. He mentions the city's rich history and the truck-driving culture that is part of his background. He declares that his passion for music comes from the heart, not for monetary gain. Overall, "Tonight" is a heartfelt expression of frustration, longing for acceptance, and a desire to make a genuine impact in the music industry without compromising one's true self. Upchurch's lyrics portray his love for Nashville while challenging the superficiality and monetization of the music world.
