What was the artist really thinking when they wrote that line? In Song Meanings, we go beyond the melody to uncover the stories, inspirations, and hidden messages behind your favorite tracks. From debunking urban legends to exploring the deep personal history that shaped iconic lyrics, we help you understand the music you remember on a whole new level.
It is one of those musical ironies that so many people wonder about the lyrics to Steve Miller’s 1973 song, The Joker, “the pompatus of love.” The song is catchy and it is one of those classic rock songs you can’t help but sing along to. But let’s face it. It’s fluff and the lyrics … Read more
Most people today probably know Mony, Mony from Billy Idol, but that is not who sang Mony, Mony originally. It’s a song from the 1960’s from Tommy James and the Shondells, a band of many hits, and many covered tunes. The song appeared on the album Crimson and Clover. “Here she come now, say Mony, Mony,” is how … Read more
Song: 25 or 6 to 4 (1970) Artist: Chicago Album: Chicago II (Columbia) The Tommy Tutone song Jenny (867-5309) spawned quite a myth, or maybe not a myth, about thousands of people calling the number from the song and overloading the circuit boards, thus causing the number to always be “out of service,” or something like that. But … Read more