Introduction
Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners was a chart-topping song in the 1980s that has endured through the decades as a sing-along classic. Dexys Midnight Runners is a band from Britain famous for their unique sound and blend of different genres. The band’s lead singer, Kevin Rowland, wrote the lyrics of Come On Eileen, a song that became a hit within a short time of its release.
This article will explore the meaning behind the song Come On Eileen, its history, and how it became a classic.
The song’s history
Come On Eileen was released in 1982 as a single by Dexys Midnight Runners. The song’s lively rendition featuring a fiddle, a banjo, and a catchy bass line ensured its success, topping charts in the UK and the US.
The song tells the story of a young woman named Eileen, who the lyrics writer, Kevin Rowland, is trying to convince to give him a chance to be her lover. Rowland has publicly shared that his goal was to express the beauty of a woman like Eileen who comes from an underprivileged background but has sterling qualities that make her attractive.
The song’s universal appeal and memorable hook still make it a party favorite to date. In 1983, the record was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and the British Phonographic Industry (BPI).
The meaning behind Come On Eileen
Come On Eileen’s lyrics are full of innuendos, double entendres, and wordplay. The meaning behind the song is more about the story that Kevin Rowland wanted to tell rather than a particular message.
The song’s protagonist is struggling to make Eileen fall for him, and the lyrics suggest a push and pull, uncertain relationship between the two characters. The melody is joyful, but the words contain sadness and longing, typifying the reality of life.
Come On Eileen has been interpreted differently by different people. Some listeners believe that the song is an ode to a woman named Eileen, while others suggest that it is more of a coming-of-age song with a little bit of rogue behavior thrown in there. The lyrics can be difficult to decipher, and the song’s intended message is open to interpretation.
In an interview with The Guardian, Rowland shed more light on the inspiration behind the song. He admitted that while the song was a hit, it was more of a reflection of his struggles with unrequited love.
The song’s structure and instruments
Come On Eileen’s unique blend of instruments is one of the factors that make it an enduring classic. The melody pairs the warm, ranch-style tones of the fiddle with a baroque pop orchestration, resulting in a sound that was both lively and charming.
Some of the instruments used in the song include the banjo, the bassoon, the mandolin, and the accordion.
Apart from the instrumentation, the song’s structure also enhanced its uniqueness. The slow opening soon builds up to the fast-tempo chorus, emphasizing the song’s message of hope and anticipation.
The song’s cultural impact
The cultural impact of Come On Eileen has been immense. The song’s catchy rhythm and memorable lyrics have made it a staple in various cultural events, from weddings to sporting events.
It has appeared in movies and TV shows, including the movies The Perks of Being a Wallflower and The Girl Next Door. In the TV shows, it has appeared in Don’t Trust the B—- in Apartment 23 and Glee.
Come On Eileen’s status as a classic is evidenced by the numerous cover versions of the song. The song’s most notable covers include versions by Save Ferris, 2Cellos, and No Doubt.
Conclusion
Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners is an enduring classic that has maintained its popularity over the years. The song’s unique blend of instruments and catchy lyrics have cemented its place in music history. Though the lyrics’ meaning is open to interpretation, the song’s theme of love and hope has resonated with many.
Come On Eileen continues to be one of the most beloved songs of the 80s and a timeless classic that crosses generations. It is a testament to the power of music to bring people together and create memorable moments.
