The clock is tickin’ lately
Guess that means I’m doin’ something right
Been here a long time, baby
But gosh, I hope I make it through the night
It’s fleetin’ like my battery life
Hard to hold on to like every guy
When you’re hot, it’s just a matter of time
But I can do a lot with fifteen minutes
Lot of pretty boys, lot of funny business
Take a couple bucks, turn ’em into millions
You, you, you know I
I can do a lot with fifteen minutes
Only gonna take two to make you finish
Piss some people off, show ’em what they’re missin’
You, you, you know I can
Where did all these parties come from?
When did all you bitches get so nice?
Runnin’ out of the woodwork
And hopin’ there’s no brain between my eyes (My, my)
Well, it’s fleetin’ like we’re all gonna die (All gonna die)
Hard to hold like conversations when high (Conversations when high)
When you’re hot, they’re gonna eat you alive (Alive, alive, alive)
But I can do a lot with fifteen minutes (I can)
Lot of pretty boys, lot of funny business (Tell me I’m wrong)
Take a couple bucks, turn ’em into millions
You, you, you know I
I can do a lot with fifteen minutes (Sure can)
Only gonna take two to make you finish (No)
Piss some people off, show ’em what they’re missin’ (Ooh, you)
You, you, you know I can
I
You know I
You know I
Oh, when my time’s up, baby (Na-na-na)
I’ll leak some pictures maybe (No)
Say somethin’ batshit crazy
I’ll do it, don’t you make me
When my time’s up, baby (Time’s up, baby)
I’ll leak some pictures maybe
Say somethin’ batshit crazy
I’ll do it, don’t you make me, yeah, oh (Ah)
Uh-uh, uh, uh
Uh, I’ll do it
Oh, I’ll do it
Oh, I’ll do it, babe
The Ephemeral Nature of Fame and Time
With “15 Minutes,” Sabrina Carpenter delivers a sharp, self-aware reflection on fleeting fame and the power that can be wielded in even the shortest of moments. The lyrics cleverly weave together the ticking clock motif with a playful, yet biting, commentary on celebrity culture and personal agency. Carpenter highlights the transient nature of popularity—comparing it to a dying phone battery or a passing relationship—while also embracing her own ability to make a mark, even if just for a quarter of an hour. Her wit shines as she juggles confidence and vulnerability, poking fun at the spectacle of modern fame and her place within it.
Empowerment Amidst the Chaos
The song’s chorus is an anthem of empowerment, asserting that Carpenter can achieve a lot in just fifteen minutes—whether it’s stirring up controversy, turning small opportunities into big wins, or leaving a lasting impression. The playful bravado is balanced with a hint of rebellion, as she contemplates what she might do when her time in the spotlight ends. “15 Minutes” is a savvy, infectious take on navigating the highs and lows of being young, talented, and constantly watched.
Song Credits
- Artist: Sabrina Carpenter
- Songwriters: Sabrina Carpenter, Jason Evigan, Julia Michaels
- Release Year: 2024