Meaning of “Bigger Houses” by Dan + Shay

by Osei Kojo Enoch· Published July 22, 2023· Updated July 22, 2023

Dan + Shay’s “Bigger Houses” is a commentary on materialism and the pursuit of happiness in life. It reflects the singer’s realization that real joy and fulfillment don’t stem from physical possessions or wealth, but from the relationships we nurture and the simple, meaningful moments of life.

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Youthful Dreams

In Verse 1, the singer speaks about his youthful dreams and aspirations, which were focused on acquiring wealth and material possessions like a large house on a hill. He speaks about the stress associated with amassing wealth and how it used to cause him sleepless nights.

To Hell with Keeping up with the Jones

The Pre-Chorus signals a shift in the singer’s perspective. As he has grown older, he’s become less concerned with ‘keeping up with the Joneses’. This is an idiomatic phrase that refers to the pressure of social comparison and maintaining an appearance of socioeconomic status. The singer has realized that a house, no matter how grand, will never truly feel like a home if it isn’t filled with loved ones.

Happiness isn’t found in things that are material

The Chorus introduces the metaphor of a ‘higher high’ and ‘greener grass’. These symbolize the never-ending pursuit of ‘more’ or ‘better’ that can consume a person’s life. It acknowledges the constant comparisons one can make, like a neighbor’s greener yard or a newer car model, which often leave us dissatisfied with what we already have.

It goes on to say that no amount of external things can fill a void if what we already have is not appreciated. The key message here is that happiness isn’t found in material wealth or ‘bigger houses’ but within oneself and one’s relationships. This is a sentiment we totally agree with.

“There’s always gonna be a higher high
You could chase for the rest of your life
Greener grass in the yard next door
Or a shined up Chevy little newer than yours
You’re never gonna fill an empty cup if what you got’s still not enough
The thing about happiness I’ve found is
It don’t live in bigger houses”

What brings the singer joy

Verse 2 provides specific examples of the moments that now bring the singer joy: children’s footsteps, dogs playing in the backyard. These mundane, everyday occurrences, tied to family and companionship, have come to represent true happiness.

Happiness doesn’t live in “Bigger Houses”

The Pre-Chorus and Chorus repeat, reinforcing the contrast between the singer’s past materialistic ambitions and his current, more emotionally-centered values.

The Bridge and Outro are minimalist. However, they provide a powerful reiteration of the song’s central message, emphasizing that the pursuit of happiness lies not in material possessions, but in cherishing the simple joys of life.

Overall, “Bigger Houses” serves as a contemplative reflection on the nature of happiness, the emptiness of materialism, and the importance of prioritizing love and relationships.

Release Date of “Bigger Houses”

“Bigger Houses” was released on the 14th of July, 2023. It is one of the singles found on Dan + Shay’s fifth studio album (which is also titled “Bigger Houses”).