The Meaning Behind The Song: Funky by Royal Treatment Plant
Before we delve into the meaning behind the song “Funky” by Royal Treatment Plant, let’s take a look at some key details of this track:
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Funky | Royal Treatment Plant | Royal Treatment Plant | RTP EP (2005) | October 2005 | Alternative Rock | Gilles Ruppert |
“Funky” is the fifth and final track on Royal Treatment Plant’s debut EP, ‘RTP EP’ released in 2005. This alternative rock song was originally known as “Dance For Hours a Day” or “Dancefloor (Was His Name).” Its discovery on January 9th, 2024 unveiled the artist behind the song, which was previously unknown.
Although what we currently have of the song isn’t the full version, as it doesn’t fade out and there’s another section yet to be heard, it still delivers a powerful message in its existing form.
The lyrics of “Funky” portray a sense of detachment and a dismissal of someone’s advances. The song opens with the lines “Girl, you should be over this, No time for playing games with little wicked boys.” This suggests that the narrator is uninterested in engaging with someone who is immature and not ready for something serious.
The chorus of the song emphasizes the narrator’s views on this person, describing them as “funky” and using words like “missy,” “baby,” and “play me funky.” These words are used sarcastically, implying that the person being addressed is self-centered and arrogant. The line “You’d think the dance floor wears your name” suggests that this person believes they are the center of attention wherever they go.
The second verse takes a slightly different tone, with the narrator expressing relief that the person in question didn’t call. They acknowledge that the person may not be the brightest, stating “You’re not that bright, but boy, Einstein didn’t look like you.” This line cleverly juxtaposes the person’s lack of intelligence with the iconic genius of Einstein.
The bridge of the song reflects on past experiences and how this encounter with the self-proclaimed “funky” individual has affected the narrator. They sing, “While I’ve forgotten all the names of those other boys I wrote the sad songs about, while I can’t quite remember how hard I fell last time, you’ve anesthetized my brain, to past and future pain.” This indicates that the narrator had been hurt in the past, but this new person has somehow managed to numb their pain.
The second bridge suggests that the narrator may have taken a pill, possibly metaphorical, to escape from reality and indulge in this person’s thrilling but potentially harmful presence. The repeated lines “And I didn’t quite believe, you said you wouldn’t mess with me, but I knew better” reveal a conflict between the narrator’s skepticism and their attraction to this person.
Now, let me share a personal experience with this song. When I first heard “Funky,” I was drawn to its infectious energy and catchy melodies. However, as I paid closer attention to the lyrics, I began to appreciate the underlying message of self-empowerment and not settling for someone who doesn’t genuinely value you.
I believe this song resonates with many people who have encountered individuals who seem to believe the world revolves around them. It serves as a reminder to stand firm in our own worth and not be swayed by empty words and empty promises.
In conclusion, “Funky” by Royal Treatment Plant is a powerful alternative rock track that explores themes of detachment, self-empowerment, and not settling for someone who lacks sincerity. Its sarcastic lyrics and energetic sound make it a standout song in the band’s discography. Let this song be a reminder to always value our worth and not allow ourselves to be caught up in the charm of someone who doesn’t truly appreciate us.
