Talking Heads, an American rock band formed in New York City in 1975, was known for their unique blend of art rock, new wave, and funk music. The band’s success was driven by the distinctive voice of lead singer David Byrne, the innovative musicianship of the other band members, and their ability to incorporate elements of world music and avant-garde into their sound. One of Talking Heads’ most recognizable and iconic songs is “Same as it Ever Was”, which was released on their 1980 album “Remain in Light”. The song is a commentary on the monotony and absurdity of modern life, with the famous refrain “same as it ever was” serving as a powerful and ironic statement. In this article, we will explore the meaning, music, and legacy of “Same as it Ever Was”, as well as its place in the broader context of Talking Heads and the 1980s music scene.
The Meaning of “Same as it Ever Was”
The song “Same as it Ever Was” is a reflection on the monotony and repetitiveness of modern life, with the famous refrain “same as it ever was” serving as a powerful and ironic commentary. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mundane existence, with references to a “beautiful house” and a “blue sky” that are ultimately meaningless and unfulfilling. The song also touches on themes of conformity, routine, and the feeling of being trapped in one’s own life.
The phrase “same as it ever was” has become an iconic expression of the status quo and the unchanging nature of society. It is a reminder that despite the constant change and progress of the world, some things remain the same. The song highlights the absurdity of this reality and suggests that we should strive for something more meaningful and fulfilling.
Overall, “Same as it Ever Was” is a powerful commentary on the human condition and the struggle to find purpose and meaning in a world that often feels empty and meaningless. Its enduring popularity and relevance are a testament to the enduring appeal of Talking Heads and their unique brand of music and social commentary.
Some possible discussion points for this section include:
- The influence of existentialist philosophy on the lyrics of the song
- The role of irony and satire in the message of the song
- The relationship between the lyrics and the music in conveying the song’s meaning.
Talking Heads “Same as it ever was” lyrics
[Intro: Danny Boy]
Uh shoot ’em all baby
Just call it in one time for me, real heavy![Everlast]
Back In Black
Who’s The Mack?
Sittin’ on the back
Of a Cadillac[Verse 1: Danny Boy]
Well it’s the D, motherfucker
Better pass me the mic
So I can rock on
And drop the styles I write
I like hip-hop
Ya don’t stop
And all that
I rock the freak styles
And neat styles
That are crazy phat
It’s making me sick
Punk get off my dick!
[Chorus: Danny Boy & Everlast]
Cause I’m the same motherfucker
That I ever was
(Same motherfucker!)
But I can’t pay attention
Cause I’m on that dust[Verse 2: Everlast]
My head’s not swell
Kid I’m not sell
Don’t feed me soup
Just give me the funky loop
I’ll rock it to the best of my ability
Running mad styles and showing flexibility
Cause I’m the man that’s On Point
When I jam a funky joint
I’m on some other Over There
Yo, I just don’t care shit
Pass the mic
Then I’m gonna tear shit
Up like a piece of paper
Your girl caught the vapor
When I ran the caper
I ain’t rearranged, so don’t look strange
I’m the same motherfucker
Ain’t a damn thing changed
[Chorus: Danny Boy & Everlast]
Cause I’m the same motherfucker
That I ever was
(Same motherfucker!)
But I can’t pay attention
Cause I’m on that dust[Verse 3: Danny Boy]
Cause I’m hard like stone
Don’t play me soft
And I rock rhymes frequently
I drop it often
I’m off in space
I remember your face
But don’t remember your name
Cause it’s all the same
As it ever was
That’s what it is, money grip
Don’t trip or I’m a bust that lip[Chorus: Danny Boy & Everlast]
Cause I’m the same motherfucker
That I ever was
(Same motherfucker!)
But I can’t pay attention
Cause I’m on that dust
[Verse 4: Everlast]
Bust it, flip it, skip it
Just like a stone on a river
Ya know I’m gonna’ give her
Whole lotta’ flavor
Criminal behavior
Used to be how I made it
But that shit’s over rated
Now I rock rhymes over funky beats
I fuck fine hookers between satin sheets
They say money changes people
But I won’t cause
I’m the same motherfucker that I ever was![Chorus: Danny Boy & Everlast]
Cause I’m the same motherfucker
That I ever was
(Same motherfucker!)
But I can’t pay attention
Cause I’m on that dust[Outro: Everlast]
And ya don’t quit
Cause I’m on that dust
Soul Assassins are on that dust
My man J. Disco is on that dust
Cypress Hill is on that dust
Funkdoobiest is on that dust
The Music and Production of “Same as it Ever Was”
The music and production of “Same as it Ever Was” are just as distinctive and innovative as its lyrics. The song features a driving, syncopated beat that is a hallmark of Talking Heads’ unique brand of art rock and funk. The percussion, in particular, is notable for its complex rhythms and use of African and Latin American musical traditions.
The song’s production is also noteworthy, with Brian Eno serving as the producer for the “Remain in Light” album. Eno brought his own experimental and avant-garde sensibilities to the project, and the result is a highly textured and layered sound that incorporates a wide range of musical influences and techniques. The use of tape loops, samples, and other electronic effects gives the song a futuristic and otherworldly feel, while the live instrumentation keeps it grounded in the band’s organic and improvisational roots.
“Same as it Ever Was” has had a significant influence on subsequent music, particularly in the alternative and indie rock genres. Its use of unconventional percussion, layered textures, and experimental production techniques have been cited as an inspiration by many artists. The song has also been covered and remixed by a variety of musicians, further cementing its place in the canon of popular music.
Possible discussion points for this section include:
- The influence of African and Latin American music on Talking Heads’ sound
- The role of producer Brian Eno in shaping the sound of “Same as it Ever Was”
- The use of tape loops and other electronic effects in the song’s production
- The song’s influence on subsequent music and its place in the history of alternative and indie rock.
Talking Heads and the 1980s Music Scene
The 1980s were a time of significant change in the music industry, with the rise of new wave, punk, and alternative rock challenging the dominance of mainstream pop and rock music. Talking Heads was at the forefront of this movement, with their innovative sound and socially conscious lyrics.
“Same as it Ever Was” is a quintessential example of Talking Heads’ approach to music, blending elements of funk, world music, and avant-garde into a unique and distinctive sound. The song’s use of irony and satire also reflects the ethos of the 1980s music scene, which was characterized by a rejection of traditional values and a desire for experimentation and innovation.
Impact and Legacy of “Same as it Ever Was”
“Same as it Ever Was” remains a beloved and iconic song decades after its initial release. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to a number of factors, including its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and innovative production. The song has also been used in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Some possible discussion points for this section include:
- The song’s use in popular culture, including its appearance in movies like “The Truman Show” and TV shows like “Stranger Things”
- The enduring appeal of Talking Heads and their music
- The role of “Same as it Ever Was” in defining Talking Heads’ legacy
- The ways in which the song continues to resonate with listeners today and its relevance to contemporary issues and concerns.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Same as it Ever Was” is a timeless and influential song that embodies the unique and innovative sound of Talking Heads. The song’s lyrics, production, and social commentary continue to resonate with listeners today, decades after its initial release.
Through its use of irony and satire, the song reflects the ethos of the 1980s music scene, which was characterized by a rejection of traditional values and a desire for experimentation and innovation. This approach helped to pave the way for the rise of new wave, punk, and alternative rock and influenced subsequent generations of artists.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting impact and relevance. Its use in popular culture and continued influence on contemporary music further cements its place in the canon of popular music. “Same as it Ever Was” is a true classic that will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for years to come.
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