A Certain Shade Of Green
Incubus · The Essential [2012]
tell me, is that what do you need?
All signs around say move ahead.
Could someone please explain to me
your ever present lack of speed?
Are your muscles bound by ropes?
Or do crutches cloud your day?
My sources say the road is clear,
the street signs point the way.
(You gonna stand around till 2012 A.D.?
What are you waiting for,
a certain shade of green?
I think I grew a gray
watching you procrastinate.
What are you waiting for,
a certain shade of green?) (CHORUS)
Would a written invitation
signed, "Choose now or lose it all,"
sedate your hesitation?
Or inflame and make you stall?
You've been raised in limitation,
but that glove never fit quite right.
The time has passed for hand-me-downs,
choose a new, please evolve,
take flight.
(CHORUS)
Green, What are you waiting for?
What you waitin' for?
A written invitation?
A public declaration?
A private consolation?
Remember when you procrastinate you choose last!
(I think I grew a gray, watching you PROCRASTINATE!)
(CHORUS)
A Certain Shade Of Green
Incubus delivers a melodic rock anthem on The Essential [2012], showcasing the band's signature blend of alternative rock and electronic textures. The track features frontman Mike Shinoda's distinctive vocal delivery layered over driving rhythms and atmospheric synths, characteristic of their mid-to-late 2000s sound. As a compilation release, the song highlights the group's ability to balance aggressive guitar work with accessible pop structures. It stands as a representative piece of their discography, reflecting the era's shift toward more polished production while maintaining their core identity. The recording captures the energy of their live performances and studio experimentation, cementing their status as a defining act in the modern alternative rock landscape.