Broken Open

Album: For Your Entertainment (2009)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Lambert penned this icy ballad with the song's producer Greg Wells, who is the man behind hits by Pink, Katy Perry and Kelly Clarkson. The other co-writer is Evan Bogart whose credits include "S.O.S. (Rescue Me)" by Rihanna and "Jai Ho! (You Are My Destiny)" by the Pussycat Dolls. Bogart also co-wrote the album's exclusive iTunes track entitled "Down the Rabbit Hole."
  • Lambert explained to Rolling Stone that this tune, "could put it in the same category as a downtempo Goldfrapp song or even like Radiohead, there's shades of that in there, very electronic but mellow, very ethereal. The lyrics are basically encouraging someone to feel safe in being vulnerable. 'Lay here, it's safe here, I'll let you be broken open.' It's about that moment where someone really opens up emotionally to you. I just wrote that from some experiences that I've had with certain people in my life, and I hope that it comes across that way."

Comments: 1

  • Florida Woman from FloridaThis is one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard. The lyrics and the way Adam sings it reaches inside your being and brings a sort of peace like no other. Totally vulnerable. Just an incredible gift this man has of expressing feelings. I am a forever fan.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet Sprocket

Glen Phillips of Toad the Wet SprocketSongwriter Interviews

The "All I Want" singer went through a long depression, playing some shows when he didn't want to be alive.

Harry Wayne Casey of KC and The Sunshine Band

Harry Wayne Casey of KC and The Sunshine BandSongwriter Interviews

Harry Wayne Casey tells the stories behind KC and The Sunshine Band hits like "Get Down Tonight," "That's The Way (I Like It)," and "Give It Up."

Grammar In Lyrics

Grammar In LyricsMusic Quiz

Lyrics don't always follow the rules of grammar. Can you spot the ones that don't?

Donny Osmond

Donny OsmondSongwriter Interviews

Donny Osmond talks about his biggest hits, his Vegas show, and the fan who taught him to take "Puppy Love" seriously.

Tom Waits Lyrics Quiz

Tom Waits Lyrics QuizMusic Quiz

Pool balls, magpies and thorns without roses - how well do you know your Tom Waits lyrics?

Vince Clarke

Vince ClarkeSongwriter Interviews

An original member of Depeche Mode, Vince went on to form Erasure and Yaz.