Title: Decoding the Symbolic Genius of “Monkey” by George Michael
The Inspiration Behind “Monkey”
One of the most enigmatic songs by the late George Michael, “Monkey” has been a subject of fascination for music connoisseurs ever since its release in 1988. The seemingly ambiguous lyrics and abstract video suggest a deeper meaning behind this synth-pop hit. So, what is the inspiration behind “Monkey”?
According to Michael, the song is a metaphor for his addiction to drugs and his struggle to overcome it. In an interview with NME, he said, “It’s about my relationship with drugs, essentially, and also my relationship with fame.”
Decoding the Lyrics
The song’s chorus goes, “Why can’t you do it? Why can’t you set your monkey free? Always giving in to it. Do you love your monkey, or do you love me?” Here, “monkey” is a metaphor for addiction, which Michael is imploring himself to overcome.
The lyrics also delve into the dark side of fame and the pressures that come with it. In the verse, Michael sings, “All we’ve got is each other. And that’s a lot. For love, we’ll give it a shot. All we’ve got is tonight. And it feels like every night.” The lyrics suggest a sense of isolation, where love and companionship become rare commodities for celebrities amidst the pressures of fame.
The Deeper Meaning Behind the Video
The video for “Monkey”, directed by Andy Morahan, portrays Michael as an enigmatic character, donning a leather jacket and shades, lurking around a club. The video has an abstract yet intriguing storyline, where Michael is seen chasing after a woman with a monkey mask, only for her to reveal her true identity as a man.
The video’s symbolism suggests a deeper message, where the monkey mask represents the persona that Michael used to hide his addiction, and the woman represents the temptation of drugs. By revealing herself as a man, the video shows how the allure of drugs can be deceptive and misleading.
The Legacy of “Monkey”
Despite being successful upon its release, with a #13 rank on the US Billboard Hot 100, “Monkey” remains an underrated masterpiece in Michael’s oeuvre. However, the song’s impact on pop culture is undeniable, with its influence being seen in various contemporary songs.
In a 2015 interview, Charli XCX cited “Monkey” as one of her favorite songs of all time, saying that the song has had a significant influence on her own musical style. Emma Bunton of the Spice Girls also reportedly auditioned for her role in the band by singing “Monkey”.
Conclusion
George Michael was ahead of his time, and “Monkey” is a testimony to his extraordinary talent. The song’s lyrics and video both showcase Michael’s keen insight into the dark realities of fame and addiction. Despite its enigmatic nature, “Monkey” remains one of the most compelling songs in the pop genre, and its legacy continues to inspire musicians across generations.
