The Meaning Behind The Song: Surrender by Cheap Trick
For music lovers, Cheap Trick’s “Surrender” is a timeless classic. The iconic rock tune has been played countless times on radios and is a staple of classic rock stations. Its catchy chorus and driving guitar riff, and raw emotive lyrics, evoke an image of defiance and teenage rebellion.
But “Surrender” isn’t just another angsty rock song; it has a deeper meaning that speaks to listeners, and historically, it has played a pivotal role in rock music culture. In this article, we’ll explore what made “Surrender” a classic and what messages lay hidden within its lyrics.
Cheap Trick: The Band and The Song
To understand the meaning behind the song, we must first know who Cheap Trick is. The band formed in Rockford, Illinois, in 1973, consisting of members Robin Zander, Rick Nielsen, Tom Petersson, and Bun E. Carlos. They are known for their unique style, combining elements of hard rock, power-pop, and punk rock, which was revolutionary at the time.
“Surrender” was written by guitarist Rick Nielsen for the band’s fourth studio album, “Heaven Tonight,” released on April 23, 1978. The song quickly became a fan favorite and album highlight, featuring signature elements of the Cheap Trick sound.
A Coming-Of-Age Story
At the core of “Surrender” is a universal feeling that many of us can relate to: growing up and dealing with the changes that come along with it. The song follows a young protagonist who struggles to accept his parents’ divorce and his changing youth. The lyrics candidly describe his emotions, venting his anger and confusion, and offering a glimpse into the minds of many teenagers during this pivotal moment.
As we dive deeper into the lyrics, we see that the narrative of “Surrender” goes beyond a grieving child. It discusses the idea of letting go of one’s past and finding acceptance. The line “Mommy’s all right, Daddy’s all right, they just seem a little weird/ Surrender, Surrender, but don’t give yourself away” acknowledges that everybody has flaws, and that’s okay. The song encourages listeners to find peace with themselves and those around them.
Subversive Lyrics
While the message of “Surrender” may seem innocent, a closer look reveals intrinsic rebellion. The lyrics are full of double entendres that criticize American culture of the time, exposing hypocrisies and addressing taboos. The phrase “We’re all all right” was a common mantra during the era, representing the perceived perfection of the traditional Perfect / Nuclear family. Nielsen’s lyrics twist this phrase, instead using it to represent the idea of surrender.
Additionally, the term “Mommy’s alright, Daddy’s all right” references the popular TV sitcom “Happy Days,” which represented perfect household conditions in the late 70s. The show became a representation of the American youth culture, the song juxtaposed against this depiction of innocence and perfection.
So, when the lyrics describe the parents’ strangeness, it implicitly comments on a mass disillusionment with those seemingly perfect 1950s portrayals of society. Therefore, the song becomes a subversive critique against this culture, with messages of rebellion and solidarity with the underdog.
Impact and Legacy
“Surrender” played a significant role in rock music culture, both in the late 70s and beyond. The song’s catchy melody and the story of the suburban youth who feels lost and confused resonated with audiences of all ages. It reached number 62 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts, helping the band become one of the most influential acts of their time. It’s even been covered by a long list of famous musicians like Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, and Green Day.
Aside from its impact on the music industry, the song reflects the mood of the generation to which it spoke. It taps into the essence of teenage angst, rebellion, and self-discovery in ways that few other songs ever have. For many of those who grew up during the era, “Surrender” became a symbol of their generation, a tribute to being young and rebelling against the established norms of society.
Conclusion
In a world where we’re told to conform and fit in, “Surrender” elevates a message of individuality, freedom, and liberation. The song spoke to an entire generation of American youth, who found solace in the narrator’s rebellion and angst. And although the track was released more than forty years ago, its universal message continues to resonate today.
The song’s multilayered message also means there is a lot of room for interpretation, and people can draw their own conclusions. The meaning hidden beneath the words of “Surrender” reflects the idea that we should question the things we’re told to believe, sometimes challenging the status quo. In short, as the lyrics themselves say: Surrender, but don’t give yourself away.
