Discovering the Hidden Significance of “True Faith” by New Order
Considered one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, “True Faith” by New Order became the band’s highest-charting single in the United Kingdom when it was released in 1987. Its upbeat and catchy tune has been covered by numerous artists over the years and is still widely embraced by audiences today. However, beneath its sparkling electronic instrumentation, the song bears a profound meaning that reflects the struggles of modern society. In this article, we will explore the true significance of “True Faith” by New Order and what makes it such a timeless classic.
An Introduction to the Band
Before diving into the song’s meaning, let’s take a brief look at New Order’s background. The band is one of the most influential British acts of the 1980s and a pioneer in the world of electronic music. Formed in Manchester, England, in 1980, New Order emerged from the ashes of the iconic post-punk band Joy Division after the tragic suicide of its lead singer, Ian Curtis. New Order’s music blended dance and rock rhythms with cutting-edge synthesizer sounds, which ultimately created the dance-rock hybrid genre that was later known as “Madchester.”
The Lyrics: A Search for the Truth
“True Faith” was written by New Order’s founding members, Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, and Stephen Morris. The lyrics describe the struggles of someone who is seeking to find his or her place in the world and to make sense of its complexity. The opening lines—”I feel so extraordinary/something’s got a hold on me/I get this feeling I’m in motion/a sudden sense of liberty”—suggest a sense of euphoria and liberation, but soon, the tone shifts to a more introspective and questioning one.
The chorus is where the main message of the song is delivered: “I used to think that the day would never come/I’d see delight in the shade of the morning sun/My morning sun is the drug that brings me near/to the childhood I lost, replaced by fear.” This passage refers to the idea that the hope and wonder of childhood have been replaced by fear and uncertainty in adulthood. The protagonist of the song is searching for a connection to something beyond the physical world, something that gives them meaning and a sense of direction.
The Significance of the Music
The lyrics to “True Faith” are powerful in their own right, but the song’s music is just as significant. The track features a relentless synth bassline that propels the song forward and creates a tension that never quite resolves. Throughout the song, electronic sounds bubble and burst, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and chaos. The instrumentation builds to a climax during the final chorus, where the protagonist exclaims, “This is the danger zone/This is where I get hurt/This is the place where I feel/This is the place where I feel.”
The music of “True Faith” reflects the protagonist’s journey and the uncertainty and fear that comes with it. The driving beat is a representation of the force that propels us through life, and the electronic sounds evoke the dissonance and chaos that define our modern world.
The Legacy of “True Faith”
Since its release in 1987, “True Faith” has had a lasting impact on the world of music. The song’s unique blend of rock and electronic music, coupled with its poignant lyrics, has cemented its status as a classic of the 1980s. It was included on New Order’s compilation album, “Substance,” and has been covered by countless artists over the years. The song has been used in movies, TV shows, and commercials, making it a ubiquitous presence in contemporary pop culture.
More importantly, “True Faith” has been praised for its insightful commentary on the human condition. Its lyrics reflect the struggles of everyday life, and its music captures the uncertainty and chaos that defines modern society. The song is a testament to the power of music to connect us to something greater than ourselves and to help us make sense of our place in the world.
The Bottom Line
“True Faith” by New Order is more than just a catchy tune. It is a rich and complex work of art that speaks to the struggles of modern society and the human search for meaning and purpose. Its lyrics and music continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a classic of the 1980s and a timeless work of art. Whether you’re a die-hard New Order fan or a casual listener, “True Faith” is a song that deserves to be heard and appreciated.
