From rock legends like The Beatles to soulful ballads by Sara Bareilles, Songs About Birds span a wide variety of genres, each offering a unique perspective on life’s highs and lows.
Birds have long been a symbol of freedom, hope, and beauty, inspiring countless artists to create music that captures their spirit.
Whether used as metaphors for love, independence, or overcoming hardship, these songs resonate with listeners on a deep emotional level.
In this blog, we’ll take you through 26 iconic Songs About Birds, each one a testament to the enduring influence of these feathered creatures in music.
Let’s explore how these melodies, across decades and genres, continue to lift our spirits and speak to universal truths.
1. “The Bird” by Anderson .Paak (2016)
About this song:
- Album: Malibu
- Released: 2016
- Artist: Anderson .Paak
- Genre: R&B/Soul, Dance/Electronic, Hip-Hop/Rap, Afrobeats
- Key Lyric: “A bird with the word came to me. The sweetness of a honeycomb tree. And now I look what’s taking over me. Couldn’t fake it if I wanted to.”
“The Bird” was released in 2016 as part of Anderson .Paak’s breakout album Malibu, which helped him gain widespread recognition.
The song blends soul, funk, and jazz influences, underscoring .Paak’s signature sound and storytelling approach.
It reflects on .Paak’s challenging upbringing details personal struggles and triumphs through metaphorical language, with “the bird” symbolizing freedom and resilience.
The track is marked by its mellow instrumentation, including smooth keys and .Paak’s soulful vocals, deliver a message of hope despite adversity.
Composed during a reflective period in his life, “The Bird” introduces the introspective themes explored throughout Malibu.
2. “Blackbird” by Alter Bridge (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Blackbird
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Alter Bridge
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Let the wind carry you home. Blackbird, fly away. May you never be broken again.”
Released in 2007, “Blackbird” is the title track from Alter Bridge’s second studio album and stands as one of their most emotionally charged songs.
Guitarist Mark Tremonti and lead vocalist Myles Kennedy co-wrote the track in memory of a close friend who had passed away, with the blackbird symbolizing peace and release from suffering.
Musically, the song is known for its epic, nearly 8-minute runtime and an extended dual guitar solo, which has been hailed as one of the greatest in modern rock history.
The lyrics are poignant, reflecting themes of loss, freedom, and finding solace in the afterlife, delivered through Kennedy’s powerful vocal performance.
“Blackbird” has become a fan favorite, often considered the emotional centerpiece of Alter Bridge’s discography, and continues to resonate deeply with listeners.
3. “Birds & Bees” by Vince Staples (2015)
About this song:
- Album: Summertime ’06
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Vince Staples
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Birds and the bees, they wannabes, they’ll never fuck with me.”
“Birds & Bees” was released in 2015 as part of Vince Staples’ acclaimed double album Summertime ’06.
The song uses metaphors of birds and bees to address themes of survival, maturity, and navigating life in the dangerous streets of Long Beach, California.
Staples’ lyrics reflect a nuanced exploration of growing up in a violent environment, emphasizing how innocence is quickly lost in such conditions.
The song’s minimalist production, with its haunting beats and subtle melody, accentuates the weight of the lyrics, making it a thought-provoking commentary on youth and hardship.
Composed during a period of intense creative output, “Birds & Bees” captures Staples’ perspective on his environment and has cemented his reputation as a socially conscious rapper.
Read more: Songs About Animals
4. “Bluebird” by Sara Bareilles (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Kaleidoscope Heart
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Sara Bareilles
- Genre:
- Key Lyric: “And so here we go bluebird. Back to the sky on your own. Oh, let him go bluebird. Ready to fly. You and I. Here we go.”
“Bluebird” is a track from Sara Bareilles’ third studio album, Kaleidoscope Heart, released in 2010 and is one of her more emotionally raw songs.
The song deals with the end of a relationship, using the bluebird as a metaphor for hope, resilience, and the ability to move forward after heartache.
Bareilles’ poignant piano ballad is stripped down and intimate, allowing her vocal performance to shine as she conveys vulnerability and strength.
The song was written during a time of personal transition for Bareilles, reflecting her experiences with love and the struggle to let go.
“Bluebird” has been praised for its lyrical depth and remains one of Bareilles’ most beloved tracks for its universal themes of love, loss, and healing.
5. “Birds & The Beez” by ScHoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar (2011)
About this song:
- Album: Setbacks
- Released: 2011
- Artist: ScHoolboy Q, Kendrick Lamar
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Got the block hot, you keep runnin’, cops say “freeze.” Blue pill, red pill, choose now, Birds or the Beez.”
“Birds & The Beez” was released in 2011 as part of ScHoolboy Q’s album Setbacks, featuring a guest appearance by Kendrick Lamar.
The song uses the metaphor of birds and bees to explore the harsh realities of life on the streets, touching on themes of violence, survival, and resilience.
Lamar’s verse adds a layer of introspection, contrasting the hard-hitting nature of Q’s delivery with his more philosophical approach.
The track’s production is gritty and raw, matching the intensity of the lyrics, which paint a vivid picture of the challenges of urban life.
“Birds & The Beez” stands as a defining moment in ScHoolboy Q’s career, showcasing his lyrical prowess and cementing his place in the West Coast rap scene.
6. “Birds” by Neil Young (1970)
About this song:
- Album: After the Gold Rush
- Released: 1970
- Artist: Neil Young
- Genre: Folk
- Key Lyric: “When you see me fly away without you. Shadow on the things you know. Feathers fall around you. And show you the way to go. It’s over, it’s over.”
Released in 1970 on Neil Young’s classic album After the Gold Rush, “Birds” is one of the more intimate and understated tracks in his catalog.
The song’s gentle acoustic arrangement and tender lyrics reflect themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, with the bird serving as a symbol of departure and change.
Young wrote “Birds” during a time of personal reflection and transition, capturing the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to someone close.
The arrangement’s simplicity allows the song’s emotional depth to shine through, with Young’s voice conveying a sense of quiet resignation.
“Birds” remains a fan favorite for its heartfelt honesty and is considered one of Young’s most affecting songs.
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7. “Birds” by Coldplay (2015)
About this song:
- Album: A Head Full of Dreams
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Coldplay
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “Come on, rage with me. We don’t need words. And we’ll be birds. Got to make our own key.”
“Birds” was released in 2015 as part of Coldplay’s album A Head Full of Dreams, marking a shift towards more uplifting and energetic music.
The song’s lyrics revolve around the desire for freedom and escape, using birds as a metaphor for breaking away from life’s constraints and living without fear.
Musically, “Birds” blends indie rock with electronic elements, creating a driving, atmospheric sound that captures the feeling of liberation.
Written during a period of creative rejuvenation for the band, the track reflects Coldplay’s more optimistic approach after the darker tones of their previous albums.
“Birds” has become a standout track for its soaring energy and inspiring message, resonating with fans who seek empowerment and personal freedom.
8. “I Like Birds” by Eels (2000)
About this song:
- Album: Daisies of the Galaxy
- Released: 2000
- Artist: Eels
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, French Indie
- Key Lyric: “But it’s alright if you act like a turd. Cause I like Birds.”
Released in 2000 on the album Daisies of the Galaxy, “I Like Birds” is one of Eels’ most whimsical and lighthearted songs.
The song uses birds as a metaphor for finding comfort in the simple pleasures of life, offering a sense of solace amidst life’s chaos.
Mark Everett (E), the frontman of Eels, wrote the song during a period of personal upheaval, seeking peace in nature and solitude.
Its quirky lyrics and folk-inspired melody set it apart from some of the darker themes present in other tracks from the album.
“I Like Birds” became a fan favorite for its playful tone and was often seen as a refreshing break from the more melancholic songs in Eels’ catalog.
9. “Birds” by Migos (2014)
About this song:
- Album: No Label 2
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Migos
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “I’m too fly, I spread my wings and I’m soaring. Used to trap them birds, now I’m fly like a bird (Woo!).”
“Birds” was released in 2014 as part of Migos’ mixtape No Label 2, showcasing their signature trap sound.
The song uses the metaphor of birds to refer to drug dealing, a common theme in trap music that reflects the harsh realities of street life.
Migos’ rapid-fire flows and catchy ad-libs are on full display, making “Birds” a standout track in their early career.
The track’s hard-hitting beats and infectious hooks helped elevate Migos’ status in the Atlanta hip-hop scene, marking their rise to fame.
“Birds” encapsulates the energy and bravado that would later define Migos as one of the most influential groups in modern rap.
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10. “Bird Set Free” by Sia (2016)
About this song:
- Album: This Is Acting
- Released: 2016
- Artist: Sia
- Genre: R&B/Soul
- Key Lyric: “I sing for love, I sing for me. I’ll shout it out like a bird set free.”
“Bird Set Free” was released in 2016 as part of Sia’s album This Is Acting, initially written for other artists but kept by Sia due to its personal significance.
The song is an anthem of empowerment and liberation, using the metaphor of a bird breaking free from its cage to symbolize finding one’s voice.
With its soaring vocals and emotionally charged production, “Bird Set Free” became a staple of Sia’s live performances, often associated with overcoming adversity.
Sia wrote the track during a period of creative renewal, and its message of self-expression resonated with fans worldwide.
The song became a commercial and critical success, further solidifying Sia’s status as one of the most influential pop artists of the decade.
11. “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac (1977)
About this song:
- Album: Rumours
- Released: 1977
- Artist: Fleetwood Mac
- Genre: Folk
- Key Lyric: “And the songbirds are singing. Like they know the score. And I love you, I love you, I love you. Like never before”
“Songbird” was released in 1977 as part of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic album Rumours, with Christine McVie as the sole writer and performer of the track.
The song is a delicate piano ballad about love, devotion, and letting go, often seen as one of McVie’s most personal and heartfelt contributions to the band.
McVie recorded the song in a single emotional take, capturing the rawness and sincerity of her performance.
Its simple yet poignant lyrics, combined with McVie’s soft vocal delivery, make “Songbird” a timeless and beloved classic in the Fleetwood Mac catalog.
The track became a staple in Fleetwood Mac’s live shows, often performed by McVie as a solo spotlight piece.
12. “Birdhouse in Your Soul” by They Might Be Giants (1989)
About this song:
- Album: Flood
- Released: 1989
- Artist: They Might Be Giants
- Genre: Pop rock, Children’s Music, Alternative/Indie, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Blue canary in the outlet by the light switch. Who watches over you. Make a little birdhouse in your soul.”
“Birdhouse in Your Soul” was released in 1989 on the album Flood, becoming one of They Might Be Giants’ most recognizable and quirky hits.
The song features surreal, imaginative lyrics, telling the story of a nightlight in the shape of a bluebird, symbolizing protection and hope.
Its infectious melody and offbeat humor helped the song become a cult favorite, blending alternative rock with elements of pop and folk.
Written during a creatively experimental phase for the band, the track’s eccentricity perfectly encapsulates They Might Be Giants’ signature style.
“Birdhouse in Your Soul” continues to be celebrated for its playful lyrics, catchy tune, and unique approach to songwriting.
13. “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
About this song:
- Album: Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd
- Released: 1973
- Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “’Cause I’m as free as a bird now. And this bird you cannot change.”
“Free Bird” was released in 1973 as part of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album, Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd, and became one of their most iconic tracks.
The song’s powerful guitar solo, which lasts nearly five minutes, is one of the most celebrated in rock history, symbolizing freedom and self-expression.
Written in tribute to the late Duane Allman of The Allman Brothers Band, “Free Bird” resonates with themes of loss, freedom, and independence.
Its lyrics speak to the desire to live life on one’s own terms, making it a Southern rock anthem that continues to inspire generations of listeners.
“Free Bird” is often used as the closing number in Lynyrd Skynyrd’s live performances, cementing its status as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time.
14. “Bird on the Wire” by Leonard Cohen (1969)
About this song:
- Album: Songs from a Room
- Released: 1969
- Artist: Leonard Cohen
- Genre: Folk
- Key Lyric: “Like a bird on the wire. Like a drunk in a midnight choir. I have tried in my way to be free.”
Leonard Cohen released “Bird on the Wire” in 1969 on his album Songs from a Room, solidifying his reputation as a master of lyrical songwriting.
The song’s central image, a bird on a wire, symbolizes Cohen’s struggle for personal freedom and emotional vulnerability.
Cohen wrote the song while living in Greece, inspired by the sight of birds perched on newly installed telephone wires outside his window.
It has since become one of his most enduring tracks, touching on universal themes of love, regret, and spiritual longing.
“Bird on the Wire” has been covered by numerous artists, becoming an anthem for those seeking redemption and self-discovery.
15. “Blackbird” by Noni (2014)
About this song:
- Album: Beyond the Lights (Soundtrack)
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Noni
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “As I fall without my wings. How the last song the blackbird will sing.”
Noni’s “Blackbird” was released in 2014 as part of the Beyond the Lights soundtrack, serving as a key emotional moment in the film.
The song speaks to themes of empowerment and self-liberation, using the blackbird as a metaphor for personal transformation.
It was composed to reflect the journey of the film’s main character, symbolizing her breaking free from societal pressures and expectations.
With its powerful vocals and uplifting message, the song resonated with both fans of the movie and wider audiences.
Noni’s rendition of “Blackbird” captured the essence of reclaiming one’s identity, making it a standout moment in the film.
16. “Bluebird” by Paul McCartney & Wings (1973)
About this song:
- Album: Band on the Run
- Released: 1973
- Artist: Paul McCartney
- Genre: Pop bossa nova
- Key Lyric: “I’m a bluebird, I’m a bluebird, I’m a bluebird.”
“Bluebird” was released in 1973 as part of Paul McCartney & Wings’ album Band on the Run, showcasing McCartney’s softer, folk-inspired side.
The song uses the imagery of a bluebird to symbolize freedom, love, and escape, themes that McCartney frequently explored during his post-Beatles career.
It was written while McCartney was on holiday in Jamaica, inspired by the natural beauty and tranquility of his surroundings.
The light acoustic arrangement, paired with McCartney’s smooth vocals, creates a serene and uplifting mood throughout the track.
“Bluebird” became one of McCartney’s beloved tracks, contributing to the enduring success of Band on the Run.
17. “Mockingbird” by Eminem (2004)
About this song:
- Album: Encore
- Released: 2004
- Artist: Eminem
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Now hush, little baby, don’t you cry. Everything’s gonna be alright.”
Eminem released “Mockingbird” in 2004 as part of his album Encore, offering a deeply personal reflection on his role as a father.
The song is addressed to his daughter, Hailie, using the “mockingbird” metaphor to reassure her of his love and protectiveness.
It’s one of Eminem’s most emotional tracks, chronicling the hardships and family struggles he faced while rising to fame.
The song’s simple piano melody and heartfelt lyrics marked a departure from Eminem’s usual aggressive style, revealing a softer, more vulnerable side.
“Mockingbird” received critical acclaim for its raw honesty and relatability, becoming a hit on both pop and rap charts.
18. “Caged Bird” by Alicia Keys (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Songs in A Minor
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Alicia Keys
- Genre: Neo-Soul
- Key Lyric: “I know why the caged bird sings. And only joy comes from song.”
Alicia Keys released “Caged Bird” on her debut album, Songs in A Minor, in 2001, quickly establishing herself as a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter.
The song draws inspiration from Maya Angelou’s poem “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” symbolizing the struggle for freedom and self-expression.
Keys wrote the song during her early career, reflecting on her desire to break free from industry constraints and be true to her artistry.
Its haunting piano-driven melody and soulful vocals made “Caged Bird” a standout track, showcasing Keys’ depth as an artist.
The song’s powerful message of empowerment and resilience continues to resonate with listeners, particularly in the context of personal and social liberation.
19. “Bird on a Wire” by The Neville Brothers (1996)
About this song:
- Album: Greatest Hits
- Released: 1996
- Artist: The Neville Brothers
- Genre: Funk / Soul, Pop, Stage & Screen
- Key Lyric: “Like a bird, free as a bird, free. Like a baby stillborn. Like a beast with his horn.”
The Neville Brothers covered Leonard Cohen’s “Bird on a Wire” in 1996 for their album Greatest Hits.
Their version adds a gospel and jazz influence, with the brothers’ harmonious vocals giving the song a more uplifting feel.
While staying true to Cohen’s original themes of longing and redemption, the Neville Brothers’ rendition adds a sense of spiritual transcendence.
The arrangement highlights their signature blend of R&B, blues, and soul, breathing new life into the classic track.
“Bird on a Wire” became one of the standouts on the album, celebrated for its unique interpretation and vocal delivery.
20. “I’m Like A Bird” by Nelly Furtado (2000)
About this song:
- Album: Whoa, Nelly!
- Released: 2000
- Artist: Nelly Furtado
- Genre: Folk-pop, MPB, Pop
- Key Lyric: “I’m like a bird, I’ll only fly away. I don’t know where my soul is (Soul is). I don’t know where my home is.”
“I’m Like A Bird” was released in 2000 as part of Nelly Furtado’s debut album Whoa, Nelly!, becoming her breakout hit.
The song is a pop anthem about freedom, individuality, and the desire to live life without restrictions, with Furtado likening herself to a bird ready to fly away.
Its catchy chorus and folk-inspired melodies helped establish Furtado as a fresh voice in the early 2000s pop scene.
Furtado wrote the song while reflecting on her desire for independence and her reluctance to settle down, themes that resonated with a broad audience.
“I’m Like A Bird” earned Furtado a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, cementing her status as a rising star.
21. “Blackbird” by The Beatles (1968)
About this song:
- Album: The Beatles
- Released: 1968
- Artist: The Beatles
- Genre: Contemporary Folk Music
- Key Lyric: “Blackbird fly. Blackbird fly. Into the light. Of a dark, black night.”
“Blackbird” was released in 1968 on The Beatles, with Paul McCartney as the primary writer and performer of the acoustic ballad.
The song was written as a response to the civil rights movement in the U.S., using the blackbird as a metaphor for overcoming oppression and injustice.
Its simple yet beautiful arrangement, featuring McCartney on acoustic guitar and subtle bird sounds in the background, makes it one of The Beatles’ most iconic tracks.
McCartney has stated that the song was inspired by the struggles of African Americans during the 1960s, with “blackbird” representing both literal and metaphorical freedom.
“Blackbird” has since become a symbol of hope and resilience, with its timeless message continuing to inspire new generations of listeners.
22. “Surfin’ Bird” by Trashmen (1963)
About this song:
- Album: Surfin’ Bird
- Released: 1963
- Artist: The Trashmen
- Genre: Surf music, Garage rock, Proto-punk, Children’s Music, Vocal/Easy Listening, Rock
- Key Lyric: “A well a everybody’s heard about the bird. Bird, bird, bird, b-bird’s the word.”
“Surfin’ Bird” was released in 1963 by The Trashmen, becoming an iconic surf rock anthem despite its unconventional style and quirky lyrics.
The song is a mash-up of two songs by The Rivingtons, “The Bird’s the Word” and “Papa-Oom-Mow-Mow,” giving it its unique and repetitive structure.
Known for its nonsensical lyrics and frenetic energy, “Surfin’ Bird” quickly became a cult favorite and a staple of 1960s pop culture.
The track’s infectious rhythm and playful nature have made it a frequent subject of parody and homage in various forms of media.
“Surfin’ Bird” remains a classic example of the fun, carefree spirit of the surf rock era, with its enduring legacy still alive today.
23. “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley and the Wailers (1977)
About this song:
- Album: Exodus
- Released: 1977
- Artist: Bob Marley and the Wailers
- Genre: Reggae
- Key Lyric: “Rise up this morning, smiled with the rising sun. Three little birds pitch by my doorstep.”
Released in 1977 on Exodus, “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley and the Wailers is one of Marley’s most beloved songs, radiating positivity and hope.
The song’s simple, reassuring message, “Don’t worry about a thing, ’cause every little thing’s gonna be alright,” has made it a timeless anthem of optimism.
Marley wrote the song during a period of political unrest in Jamaica, offering a message of peace and calm amidst turmoil.
The “three little birds” are thought to symbolize reassurance and good news, with Marley drawing inspiration from nature and his environment.
“Three Little Birds” continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, standing as a testament to Marley’s legacy as a messenger of love and peace.
24. “Little Bird” by Ed Sheeran (2011)
About this song:
- Album: +
- Released: 2011
- Artist: Ed Sheeran
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, German Pop
- Key Lyric: “’Cause that leads to regret, diving in too soon. And I’ll owe it all to you, oh, my little bird.”
Ed Sheeran released “Little Bird” in 2011 on his + album, showing off his acoustic and lyrical prowess.
The song is a lighthearted love ballad, where the “little bird” serves as a metaphor for fleeting love and the fragile nature of relationships.
Sheeran’s gentle acoustic guitar and warm vocals highlight the song’s sweet, wistful tone, making it a favorite among fans of his early work.
Written during Sheeran’s early years of experimentation with songwriting, “Little Bird” demonstrates his ability to blend humor and emotion in his music.
Although not as commercially successful as some of his later work, “Little Bird” has gained a loyal following for its heartfelt simplicity.
25. “Bird Song (Diplo Remix)” by M.I.A. (2016)
About this song:
- Album: AIM
- Released: 2016
- Artist: M.I.A.
- Genre: Dance/Electronic
- Key Lyric: “Don’t swallow that cause I make the culture. I’m not a lyre bird, I’m not a lyre bird.”
“Bird Song (Diplo Remix)” by M.I.A. was released in 2016 as a remix of the original track from her album AIM.
The song is filled with playful wordplay and metaphor, with M.I.A. likening herself to a bird as a symbol of independence and defiance.
Diplo’s remix adds an energetic electronic beat, amplifying the song’s experimental and avant-garde feel.
The track reflects M.I.A.’s signature blend of political commentary and bold, unconventional sound, making it a standout on the album.
“Bird Song” captures M.I.A.’s rebellious spirit, with Diplo’s remix adding a fresh, danceable twist to the original version.
26. “Blackbird Song” by Lee DeWyze (2014)
About this song:
- Album: The Walking Dead: AMC Original Soundtrack, Vol. 2
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Lee DeWyze
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “Pack your things, leave somehow. Blackbird song is over now.”
“Blackbird Song” was released in 2014 as part of The Walking Dead soundtrack, gaining widespread attention for its haunting, atmospheric sound.
Lee DeWyze wrote and performed the song, using the blackbird as a metaphor for survival, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.
The song’s stripped-back acoustic arrangement and DeWyze’s soulful vocals create a sense of quiet strength, making it a perfect fit for the show’s post-apocalyptic themes.
Written specifically for the series, “Blackbird Song” became a fan favorite, with its melancholic tone resonating deeply with viewers.
The track helped DeWyze reach a broader audience and has since become one of his most recognized songs.
Conclusion
Birds have inspired musicians for generations, leading to timeless songs that explore a range of emotions and ideas, from personal freedom to resilience in the face of adversity.
These 26 Songs About Birds offer a diverse look into how artists have used these creatures as symbols in their music, creating connections that span cultures and eras.
Whether you’re drawn to the raw emotion of Leonard Cohen’s “Bird on the Wire” or the uplifting positivity of Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds,” there’s something for every listener.
As you reflect on this list, it’s clear that the legacy of birds in music will continue to soar for years to come.