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Introduction
“Cockroach” by The Sweet is a raw, unapologetic rock anthem that showcases the band’s evolution from bubblegum pop to hard-hitting glam rock. Released on their 1976 album “Give Us a Wink,” this track represents a pivotal moment in the band’s career when they finally took full creative control of their music.
The song opens with thunderous drums reminiscent of John Bonham’s style before settling into a pulsating rhythm. Brian Connolly’s vocals are deliberately harsh and confrontational, delivering provocative lyrics with a punk-like intensity that was revolutionary for its time. The surreal, almost disorienting refrain creates a fascinating contrast with the structured verses.
What makes “Cockroach” special is how it embodies The Sweet’s musical rebellion. As their first fully self-written and self-produced album, “Give Us a Wink” freed them from the songwriting team of Chinn and Chapman who had previously controlled their sound. This newfound independence allowed them to embrace a heavier, more authentic rock identity that had always been bubbling beneath their commercial hits.
The track’s aggressive instrumentation, particularly Mick Tucker’s relentless drumming, creates an atmosphere of controlled chaos that perfectly complements the provocative lyrics. It’s a song that demands attention and refuses to be ignored – much like the resilient insect it’s named after.
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Lyrics
You crawled into my bed like a cockroach
The things you said made me lose my head
Like a waterfall
You’ve got a mouth like a VC-10
But I love you
You’ve got me in your arms
And your special charms
Ah yah ah yah
You, you got my head in circles
Ooh, loved ya
But I don’t want nobody but you
Your mocking laugh at my inhibitions
You made a fuss broke my oedipus on my mothers side
You feel your way like a Sherman tank
But I love you
You’re gonna take me there
I don’t really care
My yah ah yah
You, you got my head in circles
Ooh, loved ya
And I don’t want nobody but you
Turn around to me and bring your Mama
The way she freaks gives me the creeps
She’s a mainline mess
You’ve got to know what you’re doin’ to your Daddy
‘Cause I love you
You’ve got me in your arms
Ooh, your precious charms
Ah yah ah yah
You, you got my head in circles
Ooh, loved ya