The Meaning Behind the Song: “She’s a Beauty” by The Tubes
Released in 1983, “She’s a Beauty” is a song that still resonates with audiences today. The Tubes, a rock band from San Francisco, wrote and performed the song, which quickly rose to the top of the charts. Its catchy tune and memorable chorus are just part of what made the song successful. However, a closer look at the lyrics reveals that it’s more than just a simple pop song.
Understanding the Lyrics
At first glance, “She’s a Beauty” seems to be about a woman who’s confident and beautiful. The repeated chorus, “she’s a beauty,” reinforces this idea. However, as the song continues, it becomes clear that there’s more to it than meets the eye.
The first verse describes the woman’s appearance, but also mentions that she’s “got a style that’s all her own.” This line suggests that she’s not conforming to societal expectations of how a woman should look or act.
In the second verse, the lyrics take a darker turn. The woman is described as having “all the curves that men deserve,” which sounds objectifying. However, the line that follows balances it out: “She’s designed to disturb.” This implies that the woman is intentionally challenging societal norms and expectations.
As the song continues, the lyrics become even more pointed. The bridge includes the lines, “She’s precocious / And she knows just what it takes to make a pro blush.” This further suggests that the woman is fully aware of her effect on others and is using it to her advantage.
Ultimately, the song is more about a woman who’s challenging societal norms than it is about her physical appearance. The repeated chorus, “she’s a beauty,” is almost sarcastic, as if to suggest that the woman’s beauty is just a small part of who she is.
The Message Behind the Song
“She’s a Beauty” can be seen as a commentary on society’s expectations of women. The woman in the song is defying those expectations, and the song itself is celebrating her for doing so.
The line “all the curves that men deserve” can be seen as a criticism of the way women’s bodies are objectified and commodified. The lyrics suggest that the woman is aware of this objectification but is still using her body to express herself on her own terms.
The song’s chorus, “she’s a beauty,” is also significant. The repetition of this phrase can be seen as a way of reclaiming the word “beauty” from its usual connotations of physical appearance. Instead, the woman in the song is beautiful because of her confidence, her independence, and her refusal to conform.
The Impact of “She’s a Beauty”
“She’s a Beauty” was a huge success for The Tubes, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also praised for its video, which was directed by Kenny Ortega and featured a memorable dance sequence.
However, the song’s impact goes beyond its commercial success. It served as a feminist anthem at a time when such messages were rare in pop music. It also helped to challenge societal norms about beauty, sexuality, and gender roles.
In a 2014 interview with Billboard, The Tubes’ lead singer, Fee Waybill, reflected on the song’s impact. “It’s a song about a woman who is empowered and taking control of her own life,” he said. “So it was definitely ahead of its time.”
The Legacy of “She’s a Beauty”
“She’s a Beauty” remains an important song today, more than three decades after its release. It’s still played on the radio and featured in movies and TV shows. The song’s message of empowerment and individuality continues to resonate with audiences.
In fact, the song has been covered by a number of artists over the years, including The Grateful Dead, Reel Big Fish, and Lee DeWyze. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless nature of its message.
In Conclusion
“She’s a Beauty” may seem like a simple pop song, but its lyrics carry a powerful message about individuality and empowerment. The woman in the song is defying societal norms and expectations, and the song itself is celebrating her for doing so. Its catchy chorus and memorable video have ensured that the song remains an important part of pop culture history, with a legacy that continues to inspire audiences today.
