Neko Case is a recognized American singer-songwriter known for her powerful voice and genre-defying music, which blends indie rock, alternative, country, and folk influences.

Born in 1970 in Alexandria, Virginia, and raised primarily in Washington state, she began her career in the vibrant Vancouver punk scene.

She later gained wider recognition as a solo artist and as a member of the Canadian indie rock band The New Pornographers.

About the Song

I Wish I Was the Moon is a haunting and emotional song by Neko Case, featured as track 11 on her 2002 album.

Though it was never released as a single, the song has become one of Case’s most loved and lasting works.

It is often seen as a highlight of her career and a key track that holds the album’s late-night, southern gothic feel.

Full Lyrics I Wish I Was the Moon

Chorus

Chimney falls and lovers blaze
Thought that I was young
Now I’ve freezing hands and bloodless veins
As numb as I’ve become

Post-Chorus

I’m so tired
I wish I was the moon tonight

Verse 1

Last night I dreamt
I’d forgotten my name
‘Cause I had sold my soul
But I woke just the same
I’m so lonely
I wish I was the moon tonight

Verse 2

God blessed me, I’m a free man
With no place free to go
Paralyzed and collared-tight
No pills for what I fear

Pre-Chorus

This is crazy
I wish I was the moon tonight

Chorus

Chimney falls as lovers blaze
I thought that I was young
Now I’ve freezing hands and bloodless veins
As numb as I’ve become

Post-Chorus

I’m so tired
I wish I was the moon tonight

Bridge

How will you know
If you found me at last
‘Cause I’ll be the one, be the one, be the one
With my heart in my lap
I’m so tired, I’m so tired
And I wish I was the moon tonight

Outro

I’m so tired, I’m so tired
And I wish I was the moon
I’m so tired, I’m so tired
And I wish I was the moon tonight

Live Performance From The Lung

Similar Songs Like I Wish I Was the Moon

Here’s a selection of songs that share the vibe of I Wish I Was the Moon. Many come from Neko Case’s own catalog:

• Star Witness: It is a haunting, cinematic song whose lyrics weave together hints of memory, loss, and violence. The song uses clear imagery to evoke both the horror of the event and its emotional aftermath.
• Hold On, Hold On: The song is deeply personal, describing Case’s own experiences with love and disappointment. It is praised for its stark, honest lyrics and melancholic tone.
• People Got a Lotta Nerve: This catchy, upbeat song with dark undertones uses animal metaphors to comment on human behavior and our often naive reactions to the natural world.
• Calling Cards: The lyrics focus on missed connections and the ache of being far from someone important, with Case’s vocals conveying strength.
• Margaret vs. Pauline: This song contrasts two women’s lives- one privileged, the other marginalized- using poetic lyrics to highlight themes of fate, class, and injustice.

Similar Artists Like Neko Case

Here are some artists similar to Neko Case, known for their emotive vocals, blend of indie folk, country, and alt-country styles:

• Kacey Musgraves
  Genre: Country, Indie Folk
  Notable Albums: Golden Hour (2018), Same Trailer Different Park (2013)
• Laura Veirs
  Genre: Indie Folk, Alternative Rock
  Notable Albums: July Flame (2010), The Lookout (2018)
• Sharon Van Etten
  Genre: Indie Rock, Folk Rock
  Notable Albums: Are We There (2014), Remind Me Tomorrow (2019)
• The Handsome Family
  Genre: Alt-Country, Americana
  Notable Albums: Through the Trees (2003), Unseen (2016)
• Courtney Marie Andrews
  Genre: Americana, Indie Folk
  Notable Albums: Honest Life (2016), May Your Kindness Remain (2018)

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Notable Covers of the Song?

Yes, artists like William Elliott Whitmore and Andrew Sa have covered it.

Has the Song Been Featured in Any TV Shows?

Yes, it was prominently used in an episode of True Blood.

What Do Fans Say About the Song?

Fans often mention its emotional impact and how it relates to feelings of loss and yearning.