Mom, can I hear the lullaby, please?
And there I was tangled up in marigold
We were listening to the reverent children singing
(Sing, sing, sing, sing, sing, sing) Yeah
Humming low as the garden river flows
While the August light becomes a golden evenin’, yeah (Evenin’)
And I will lead you down that road if you lose your way
Born to be a protector, mm-hmm
Even though I know someday you’re gonna shine on your own
I will be your projector, mmm, mm-hmm
An apricot picked right off a given tree
I gave water to the soil and now it feeds me, yeah, yeah (Yeah)
And there you are, shaded underneath it all
I feel proud of who I am, because you need me, yeah (Yeah)
And I will lead you down that road if you lose your way
Born to be a protector, —tor, mm
Even though I know some day you’re gonna shine on your own
I will be your projector, mm, mm-hm
And even though I know some day you’re gonna shine on your own
I will be your projector, projector, projector
I first saw your face in your father’s gaze
There’s a long line of hands carryin’ your name, mm
Liftin’ you up, so you will be raised
Even though I know some day you’re gonna shine on your own
I will be your projector, yeah, yeah
And even though I know some day you’re gonna shine on your own
I will be your protector, born to be a protector
Okay
Exploring Maternal Love in “PROTECTOR”
Beyonce’s “PROTECTOR” is a heartfelt ode to the enduring bond between parent and child. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of nurturing, growth, and unconditional support, as Beyonce draws on natural imagery—like marigolds, rivers, and apricots—to symbolize life’s cyclical beauty and the shelter provided by a loving parent. The repeated promise to lead, protect, and project light onto the child’s path underscores themes of guidance and sacrifice. Yet, there’s also acceptance of eventual independence, as she acknowledges that her child will one day “shine on your own.” This duality between letting go and holding close is at the heart of the song’s emotional resonance.
Song Credits
“PROTECTOR” is performed by Beyonce. The track was released in 2024. Songwriting credits include Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. The song is part of her album released under the Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records labels.