Lions, Tigers & Bears

Album: Fearless (2008)
Charted: 74
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The song's title evokes the classic movie The Wizard of Oz. Sullivan explained this song on her website: "The lions, tigers and bears reference represents my career in the music business. Even though it can be pretty scary and overwhelming at times, I've been doing it for so long (most of my life) that I can handle that. That's what I do. Now, that love thing is a different animal - You can't see, hear or smell it. It can reach out and grab you at the supermarket, the bus stop or even during a performance. Being afraid of love and everything that goes with it, like not having complete control of your emotions and putting your heart in someone else's hands to do with it what they please. Having to pick up the pieces and try again if things go wrong. (and they do) That's scary. But, in the end not trying is worst than failing so, here we go again."
  • This song was produced by the hip hop producer and keyboard player Salaam Remi, who also helmed "Bust Your Windows for Sullivan." It samples Remi's song "Sheila's Playground."
  • When this song entered the Top 10 of the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, Sullivan became the first female artist to land three top 10 singles from her debut album since Ciara achieved the same feat with her Goodies set in 2004. Sullivan's first two hits were "I Need U Bad" and "Bust Your Windows."

Comments: 1

  • Heather from Houston, TxI think that any women or man that has had a heavy plate in their life as well and trying to be in a relationship with someone can really relate to this song. I am so glad that someone made a song that sums it all up. I am trully inspired at what her message was and still is. Keep up the good work girl. Remember when things get tough never give up
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Tom Johnston from The Doobie Brothers

Tom Johnston from The Doobie BrothersSongwriter Interviews

The Doobies guitarist and lead singer, Tom wrote the classics "Listen To The Music," "Long Train Runnin'" and "China Grove."

Rickie Lee Jones

Rickie Lee JonesSongwriter Interviews

Rickie Lee Jones on songwriting, social media, and how she's handling Trump.

Jon Anderson of Yes

Jon Anderson of YesSongwriter Interviews

From the lake in "Roundabout" to Sister Bluebird in "Starship Trooper," Jon Anderson talks about how nature and spirituality play into his lyrics for Yes.

Lori McKenna

Lori McKennaSongwriter Interviews

Lori's songs have been recorded by Faith Hill and Sara Evans. She's performed on the CMAs and on Oprah. She also has five kids.

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"They're Playing My Song

Chris and his wife Tina were the rhythm section for Talking Heads when they formed The Tom Tom Club. "Genius of Love" was their blockbuster, but David Byrne only mentioned it once.

Richard Butler of The Psychedelic Furs

Richard Butler of The Psychedelic FursSongwriter Interviews

Psychedelic Furs lead singer Richard Butler talks about their first album since 1991 and explains what's really going on in "Pretty In Pink."