The Meaning Behind The Song: Big Bang Baby by Stone Temple Pilots
The Inspiration Behind The Song
“Big Bang Baby” is a song by American rock band Stone Temple Pilots. It was released on March 24, 1996, as the lead single from their third studio album, “Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop”. The song is known for its catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and distorted guitar riffs. But what is the meaning behind the song?
Stone Temple Pilots’ lead vocalist Scott Weiland stated in an interview that the song was inspired by a woman he met at a strip club. He said, “I met a girl at a strip club. She was a snake dancer, and I just thought it was so bizarre. So I wrote this song called ‘Big Bang Baby’ about her.”
Interpretation of the Lyrics
While the inspiration behind the song may have been straight forward, the lyrics themselves are open to interpretation. The chorus, “Big Bang Baby, it’s a crash, crash, crash” could be interpreted as a metaphor for a relationship that started fast and furiously, only to ultimately fall apart.
The lyrics in the first verse, “My head’s like a lit cigarette, a-mmm, smokin”, could be interpreted as a reference to drug use and the sensation of being high. The second verse, “She needs a whippin, boy, like a puppy who’s been shittin'” could be interpreted as a reference to a woman who is difficult to control.
However, the lyrics in the bridge, “Hey, hey, what do you say? Otis, my man, turn the party out” could be interpreted as a shout-out to soul singer Otis Redding, who was known for his energetic and lively performances.
The Music Video
The music video for “Big Bang Baby” was directed by Marcus Raboy and features the band performing on a stage covered with flashing lights. The video also features footage of a woman dancing in front of a green screen, which creates a kaleidoscope effect.
The video was nominated for Best Hard Rock Video at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards. It lost to Metallica’s “Until It Sleeps”.
The Reception of the Song
“Big Bang Baby” was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and number four on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The song also charted in the United Kingdom, reaching number 12 on the UK Singles Chart.
Critics praised the song for its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo. AllMusic’s Stephen Thomas Erlewine called the song a “riff-fueled, joyous romp”.
FAQs
What does the title “Big Bang Baby” mean?
The title “Big Bang Baby” was inspired by a woman Scott Weiland met who was a snake dancer at a strip club. The title could be interpreted as a metaphor for a relationship that started off explosively, only to ultimately fall apart.
What is the meaning behind the lyrics?
The lyrics in “Big Bang Baby” are open to interpretation. The chorus, “Big Bang Baby, it’s a crash, crash, crash” could be interpreted as a metaphor for a relationship that started fast and furiously, only to ultimately fall apart. The first verse includes a line that could be interpreted as a reference to drug use, while the second verse could be interpreted as a reference to a woman who is difficult to control.
Who directed the music video for “Big Bang Baby”?
The music video for “Big Bang Baby” was directed by Marcus Raboy.
What was the reception of the song?
“Big Bang Baby” was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and number four on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The song also charted in the United Kingdom, reaching number 12 on the UK Singles Chart. Critics praised the song for its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo.
Who was Otis Redding?
Otis Redding was an American soul singer-songwriter known for his energetic and lively performances. He died in a plane crash at the age of 26.
What album is “Big Bang Baby” from?
“Big Bang Baby” is the lead single from Stone Temple Pilots’ third studio album, “Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop”.
What awards was the music video for “Big Bang Baby” nominated for?
The music video for “Big Bang Baby” was nominated for Best Hard Rock Video at the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards.
Who are the members of Stone Temple Pilots?
The members of Stone Temple Pilots are Scott Weiland, Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, and Eric Kretz.
What other popular songs did Stone Temple Pilots release?
Stone Temple Pilots released a number of popular songs, including “Plush”, “Vasoline”, “Interstate Love Song”, and “Big Empty”.
What genre of music is “Big Bang Baby”?
“Big Bang Baby” is a rock song with a catchy chorus and distorted guitar riffs.
How long is “Big Bang Baby”?
“Big Bang Baby” has a run time of three minutes and 22 seconds.
What album is “Big Empty” from?
“Big Empty” is from the “The Crow: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” album.
Did Stone Temple Pilots win any awards for “Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop”?
“Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop” was not nominated for any major awards. However, the album was a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard 200 and selling over two million copies in the United States.
