The Meaning Behind The Song: Wicked Game by Chris Isaak
Introduction
“Wicked Game” is a haunting ballad by American singer-songwriter Chris Isaak, released in 1989. The song gained worldwide recognition when it was featured in David Lynch’s 1990 film “Wild at Heart.” The song has since appeared in over 20 movies and TV shows, making it one of the most recognizable songs from the late 80s and early 90s.
The song’s lyrics and haunting melody immediately captivate the listener, but what is the meaning behind “Wicked Game”? In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the song and its impact on the music industry.
Lyrics Interpretation
At first glance, the lyrics of “Wicked Game” seem to be about a passionate love affair, but a closer examination reveals a deeper, darker story. The lines “No, I don’t want to fall in love with you / With this feeling so strong / And so new” suggest a sense of fear and hesitation about the relationship. The feeling is echoed in the refrain, “This wicked game to play / To make me feel this way.”
Most interestingly, the closing line of the song reveals a sense of hopelessness on the speaker’s part: “What a wicked game to play / To make me feel this way / What a wicked thing to do / To let me dream of you.” The idea of feeling something so strongly while knowing it cannot be reciprocated is crushing.
Chris Isaak on “Wicked Game”
Isaak has always been coy about the inspiration behind the song, but he has spoken about its meaning on multiple occasions. In a 2015 interview with Rolling Stone, Isaak said, “At the time, I was trying to write songs about anything other than relationships. But as it turns out, those are the only things people want to hear songs about.”
In another interview with NPR’s All Things Considered, Isaak revealed that he wrote “Wicked Game” after a breakup. When asked about the song’s lyrics, he said, “It’s about that feeling where you’re wanting love to be something that it can’t be for you, and it’s a hard place to go to.”
Musical Influences and Impact
Musically, “Wicked Game” draws from a variety of influences, including Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley, both of whom Isaak is a huge fan. Orbison’s influence is particularly evident in the song’s soaring falsetto and dramatic high notes.
The song’s impact on the music industry has been significant. In addition to being a hit in its own right, “Wicked Game” has been covered by dozens of artists, including HIM, Il Divo, and London Grammar, and has been featured in countless movies and TV shows.
Perhaps most notably, the song has been credited with launching the “sadcore” genre, a term used to describe music with a melancholy, introspective tone. The genre, which includes artists like Lana Del Rey and Bon Iver, has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Conclusion
“Wicked Game” is a haunting, unforgettable song that has stood the test of time. Its lyrics and melody continue to resonate with listeners, while its impact on the music industry cannot be overstated.
The song’s themes of unrequited love and heartbreak have made it a universal anthem for anyone who has ever loved and lost. Its musical influences and impact on the industry speak to its enduring popularity and cultural relevance.
In the end, “Wicked Game” is a work of art that stands on its own. Its meaning, while open to interpretation, speaks to the universal human experience of love and loss.
