The Punk Anthem that Shook California – The Meaning Behind The Song: California Über Alles by Dead Kennedys
The late 1970s and early 1980s saw a surge of punk rock bands challenging the societal norms of the time. One such band that made a significant impact on the punk ethos was Dead Kennedys. Their debut single, “California Über Alles,” released in 1979, became an instant hit and an anthem of its time. The song was a scalding indictment of the then-Governor of California, Jerry Brown, and his political policies. But there’s more to “California Über Alles” than just anti-establishment sentiment. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the song and how it resonated with audiences then and now.
The Rise of Punk Rock
Before we dive into the meaning of the song, let’s understand the political climate of the time. In the late 1970s, the country was reeling from the aftermath of Watergate and Vietnam. The economy was in shambles, unemployment at an all-time high, and the government was viewed with distrust. It was in this backdrop that punk rock began to flourish. The punk movement was heavily influenced by anti-establishment ideologies, nihilism, and anarchism.
The Inspiration behind “California Über Alles”
The inspiration for “California Über Alles” came from Patti Smith’s 1978 song, “Rock N Roll Nigger.” The lyrics of Smith’s song capture the essence of punk rock – “Outside of society, that’s where I want to be.” Dead Kennedys took this idea and ran with it. They wrote a song that would protest the cult-like adoration that then-Governor Jerry Brown received from the media and the masses.
Decoding the Lyrics
At first glance, the song appears to be about Jerry Brown’s rise to power. But on closer inspection, the song is a scathing critique of the cult of personality that surrounds politicians. The opening verse sets the tone – “I am Governor Jerry Brown, my aura smiles, and never frowns, soon I will be president.” Brown had presidential ambitions, and this verse is a biting commentary on his political aspirations.
The second verse skewers the media’s obsession with Brown. “I am fueled by the feed, you offer me to lead, the red carpet before me, surely will sway. So now I say goodbye, I’m going home to California.” The lyrics suggest that Brown was a media-created figure, and that he was using this image to propel his political career.
The final verse of the song takes on a more chilling tone. “Zen fascists will control you, hundred percent natural, you will jog for the master race and always wear the happy face.” The lyrics suggest that Brown’s political policies were fascist, and that he wanted to create a utopia where everyone was forced to conform to his ideals.
The Legacy of “California Über Alles”
“California Über Alles” became an instant hit with punk rock audiences and quickly spread beyond the genre. The song was a wake-up call for those disillusioned with politics and resonated with a generation that felt politically disenfranchised. The song’s anti-establishment message struck a chord with audiences worldwide and earned Dead Kennedys a reputation as one of the most politically conscious punk bands of the time.
Today, “California Über Alles” remains a cultural touchstone and an iconic anthem of its time. The song’s message is still relevant, and the issues it critiques are still prevalent in today’s society. “California Über Alles” is a testament to the power of music and the enduring legacy of punk rock.
Conclusion
“California Über Alles” is a song that captures the zeitgeist of its time. Dead Kennedys used their music to critique the political establishment and rally a generation of discontented youths. The song’s message of anti-establishment and individualism remains relevant today, and it continues to inspire a new generation of punk rock musicians and fans. “California Über Alles” is a cultural milestone that deserves its place in the pantheon of punk rock anthems.
