The Meaning Behind The Song: Virginia Plain by Roxy Music
Introduction
Virginia Plain is a song written by British glam rock band Roxy Music. The song was released as a single in 1972 and became the band’s first hit in the UK. Virginia Plain was included in Roxy Music’s debut album, Roxy Music, also released in 1972.
The song’s lyrics are often described as cryptic and surreal. Virginia Plain has been interpreted in different ways, and its meaning remains a subject of debate among critics and fans. In this article, we will explore the possible meanings behind the song Virginia Plain and try to decode the cryptic lyrics.
The Lyrics of Virginia Plain
Virginia Plain starts with a catchy synthesizer riff that sets the tone for the song. The lyrics of Virginia Plain are often described as cryptic, surreal, and nonsensical. Here are the lyrics of Virginia Plain:
“Make me a deal and make it straight, all signed and sealed, I’ll take it
To Robert E. Lee, I’ll show it
I hope and pray he don’t blow it, ’cause
We’ve been around a long time, just try try try tryin’ to make wine from water
And you want to be my friend, see it’s harder, harder, harder than it seems”
The lyrics of Virginia Plain are open to interpretation. They contain several references to historical figures, such as Robert E. Lee, the Confederate general who commanded the Army of Northern Virginia during the American Civil War. The lyrics also mention making a deal and trying to make wine from water, which could be interpreted as metaphors for something else.
Possible Meanings of Virginia Plain
The lyrics of Virginia Plain have puzzled fans and critics alike for decades. Here are some possible interpretations of the song:
A Critique of Consumerism
Some critics see Virginia Plain as a critique of consumerism. The lyrics “make me a deal and make it straight, all signed and sealed, I’ll take it” could be interpreted as a commentary on the culture of buying and consuming. The line “you want to be my friend, see it’s harder, harder, harder than it seems” could be interpreted as a reflection on the emptiness and shallowness of consumer culture.
A Tribute to Pop Art
Roxy Music was influenced by pop art, and some critics see Virginia Plain as a tribute to the movement. Pop art was characterized by its use of bright colours, bold typography, and popular imagery. The lyrics of Virginia Plain contain several references to consumer culture, such as “tangerine dreams, Titian hair, and Stevie Smith” and “cherry ice cream smile.” These references could be interpreted as a nod to the visuals of pop art.
A Nonsensical Ode
Some critics argue that Virginia Plain is a nonsensical ode to nothing in particular. The lyrics of the song are open to interpretation, and they do not seem to follow a coherent narrative or theme. Instead, the song’s lyrics seem to be a collection of random images and phrases that are strung together.
FAQs About Virginia Plain
1. Who wrote Virginia Plain?
Virginia Plain was written by Bryan Ferry, the lead vocalist and songwriter of Roxy Music.
2. What is Virginia Plain about?
The meaning of Virginia Plain is open to interpretation. Some see it as a critique of consumerism, a tribute to pop art, or a nonsensical ode to nothing in particular.
3. When was Virginia Plain released?
Virginia Plain was released as a single in 1972 and was included in Roxy Music’s debut album, Roxy Music.
4. Who played on Virginia Plain?
The members of Roxy Music who played on Virginia Plain were Bryan Ferry (vocals, keyboards), Phil Manzanera (guitar), Andy Mackay (saxophone), Paul Thompson (drums), and John Porter (bass).
5. What was the inspiration for Virginia Plain?
The inspiration for Virginia Plain is unknown. Bryan Ferry has not revealed the meaning behind the song, and its lyrics remain open to interpretation.
6. Did Virginia Plain become a hit?
Yes, Virginia Plain became Roxy Music’s first hit in the UK. The song reached No. 4 on the UK singles chart.
7. Was Virginia Plain covered by other artists?
Yes, Virginia Plain has been covered by several artists over the years, including Iggy Pop and The Smashing Pumpkins.
8. What genre is Virginia Plain?
Virginia Plain is a glam rock song, a genre that emerged in the UK in the early 1970s.
9. What other songs are on Roxy Music’s debut album?
Roxy Music’s debut album, Roxy Music, includes other songs such as Re-Make/Re-Model, If There is Something, and Ladytron.
10. What impact did Virginia Plain have on Roxy Music’s career?
Virginia Plain helped establish Roxy Music as one of the leading bands of the glam rock era. The song’s success led to greater interest in Roxy Music, and the band went on to release several successful albums.
11. What other hits did Roxy Music have?
Roxy Music had several other hits, including Love is the Drug, More Than This, Avalon, and Dance Away.
12. What is Bryan Ferry’s legacy?
Bryan Ferry is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He has been a solo artist since the 1980s and is known for his sophisticated pop music and distinctive voice. Ferry has influenced many artists, including Depeche Mode, The Killers, and Radiohead.
Conclusion
Virginia Plain is a song that has stood the test of time. It remains a popular classic of the glam rock era and a favourite among Roxy Music fans. The song’s meaning is open to interpretation, and its cryptic lyrics have puzzled fans and critics alike for decades. Whether it is a critique of consumerism, a tribute to pop art, or a nonsensical ode to nothing in particular, Virginia Plain remains a fascinating and captivating song that continues to be enjoyed to this day.
