“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Growing up in the 80s, “We Built This City” by Starship was a song that seemed to permeate every corner of popular culture. I remember my first time hearing it on a road trip with my family, the infectious beat and powerful chorus providing the perfect soundtrack for the open road. It was a time when the spirit of rock and roll felt both rebellious and unifying, capturing the essence of an era where music was a driving force for change and expression.
About The Composition
- Title: We Built This City
- Composer: Bernie Taupin, Martin Page, Dennis Lambert, and Peter Wolf
- Premiere Date: August 1, 1985
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Knee Deep in the Hoopla”
- Genre: Rock
Background
“We Built This City” emerged in the mid-80s, a period characterized by the rapid commercialization of the music industry. The song was written by a powerhouse team including Bernie Taupin, best known for his collaborations with Elton John, and Martin Page. The track is a reflection on the degradation of the music industry, lamenting how corporate interests overshadowed the true spirit of rock and roll. Despite its critical message, the song was an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming an iconic anthem of the decade.
Musical Style
The song is a quintessential example of 80s rock, characterized by its use of synthesizers, powerful vocals, and a catchy chorus. The structure is straightforward, with verses leading into an anthemic chorus that is both memorable and impactful. The instrumentation includes electric guitars, keyboards, and drums, all contributing to a sound that is both polished and energetic. The use of synthesizers gives the song a distinctly 80s feel, while the vocal delivery by Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas adds a layer of intensity and emotion.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “We Built This City” are a commentary on the commercialization of the music industry. Lines like “Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don’t you remember?” evoke a sense of nostalgia for the days when music was more about artistry and less about profit. The chorus, “We built this city on rock and roll,” serves as both a celebration of the genre and a critique of how it has been co-opted by corporate interests. The lyrics resonate with anyone who feels a deep connection to the authentic spirit of rock music.
Performance History
Since its release, “We Built This City” has been performed by Starship in countless venues worldwide. It quickly became a staple of their live performances, often serving as the closing number due to its rousing and energetic nature. Over the years, the song has seen various covers and has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture. Notable performances include Starship’s appearances at major music festivals and televised events, where the song continues to ignite audiences.
Cultural Impact
The impact of “We Built This City” extends far beyond the realm of music. It has become an emblem of the 80s, often referenced and parodied in media. Despite mixed critical reviews, it holds a special place in the hearts of those who grew up during the decade. The song’s critique of the music industry remains relevant, resonating with new generations who experience similar frustrations with the commercialization of art. It has been used in various contexts to evoke a sense of nostalgia and to comment on the ongoing changes within the music world.
Legacy
Today, “We Built This City” stands as a testament to the complexities of the music industry. Its legacy is one of both celebration and critique, highlighting the enduring power of rock music while also pointing out its vulnerabilities to commercial exploitation. The song continues to be a favorite among fans of 80s music and is frequently played on classic rock radio stations. Its message remains pertinent, reminding us of the importance of staying true to the roots of rock and roll.
Conclusion
“We Built This City” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of musical history that encapsulates the spirit of an era. Its powerful message, combined with its unforgettable melody, ensures its place in the pantheon of rock classics. For anyone looking to experience the essence of the 80s, this song is a must-listen. I encourage you to explore different recordings and live performances, each offering a unique take on this iconic anthem.
Video
Lyrics
We built this city
We built this city on rock and roll
Built this city
We built this city on rock and roll
Say you don’t know me or recognize my face
Say you don’t care who goes to that kind of place
Knee deep in the hoopla, sinking in your fight
Too many runaways eating up the night
Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don’t you remember?
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Someone’s always playing corporation games
Who cares, they’re always changing corporation names
We just want to dance here, someone stole the stage
They call us irresponsible, write us off the page
Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don’t you remember?
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
It’s just another Sunday in a tired old street
Police have got the choke hold, oh, then we just lost the beat
Who counts the money underneath the bar?
Who rides the wrecking ball into our guitars?
Don’t tell us you need us ’cause we’re the ship of fools
Looking for America, coming through your schools
Don’t you remember? (Remember)
Marconi plays the mamba, listen to the radio, don’t you remember?
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
Built this city, we built this city on rock and roll
We built, we built this city, yeah (Built this city)
We built, we built this city
We built, we built this city yeah (Built this city)
We built, we built this city
We built, we built this city yeah (Built this city)
We built, we built this city (Built this city)