Hey boy
What you gonna be when you grow up?
Hey boy
What you gonna be when you grow up?
Are you gonna wear the pants, be like Superman?
Gonna be a momma’s boy out in Zombieland
Gonna be a fast talker, making me your queen
Like a smooth operator and a love machine
What’s it gonna be? Come on
Just give it to me, making me intrigued (go on)
Don’t give in for me
I wanna know who you are under the mask and the cape
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up?
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up?
So you’re gonna rule the sky, in your Lego tower?
Gonna (uh) the world with your superpower
Come on and give me something
Come on, yeah, yeah
Come on, it’s all or nothing
Come on, I’m not a player, not a tweaker, not a riches to rag
You could be holy like a preacher and be just as bad
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up? (hey)
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up?
I see you, boy
I see you, boy
What you gonna do, boy?
I see you, boy
I see you, boy
What you gonna do, boy?
Hey, what you gonna be when you grow up?
Hey, what you gonna be when you grow up?
Oh!
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up? (oh yeah, uh)
Hey boy, what you gonna be when you grow up? (what’s it gonna be?)
Hey boy (what’s it gonna be?)
What you gonna be when you grow up?
Hey boy (what’s it gonna be, what’s it gonna be, what’s it gonna be?)
Hey boy (what’s it gonna be?)
What you gonna be when you grow up?
I see you, boy
I see you, boy
What you gonna do, boy?
I see you, boy
I see you, boy
What you gonna do, boy?
I see you, boy
I see you, boy
What you gonna do, boy?
I see you
Hey, boy
What you gonna be when you grow up?
Exploring Identity and Aspirations in “Hey Boy”
Natasha Bedingfield’s “Hey Boy” is a playful yet thought-provoking track that dives into themes of identity, potential, and self-discovery. With the recurring question, “What you gonna be when you grow up?”, Bedingfield addresses the uncertainty and excitement that comes with imagining the future. The lyrics are filled with vibrant imagery—from superheroes to preachers—inviting listeners to consider the many paths one might take. Bedingfield’s delivery, both inquisitive and encouraging, suggests a desire to see beyond the surface and connect with a person’s authentic self, not just the roles they might play. The song ultimately celebrates individuality and the journey toward self-definition, making it both catchy and relatable.
Song Credits
- Artist: Natasha Bedingfield
- Songwriters: Natasha Bedingfield, Steve Kipner, Andrew Frampton, Wayne Wilkins
- Release Year: 2007
- Label: Sony BMG