The Smiths’ "Bigmouth Strikes Again": A Witty and Energetic Indie Pop Masterclass 🎤🎸🥁
Welcome, students, to Indie Pop 101, where today we’re dissecting a track so iconic, so brimming with Morrissey’s characteristic wit, and so damn catchy, it’s practically a musical vaccination against boredom: The Smiths’ "Bigmouth Strikes Again." 💉
Grab your notebooks, sharpen your pencils (or fire up your favorite note-taking app), and prepare to delve into the lyrical genius, the innovative instrumentation, and the enduring appeal of this quintessential Smiths anthem. We’re going to explore why "Bigmouth Strikes Again" continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release, and why it remains a cornerstone of indie music history.
Course Outline:
- I. Historical Context: The Smiths and the Sound of the ’80s (Setting the Stage)
- II. Lyrical Analysis: Morrissey’s Singular Voice and the Power of Self-Deprecating Humor (Decoding the Words)
- III. Musical Structure and Instrumentation: A Symphony of Jangly Guitars and Bold Experimentation (Hearing the Music)
- IV. The "Joan of Arc" Controversy: A Glimpse into Morrissey’s Provocative Persona (Unpacking the Controversy)
- V. Enduring Legacy: Why "Bigmouth Strikes Again" Still Matters Today (The Song’s Impact)
- VI. Conclusion: Bigmouth Speaks Volumes (Wrapping It Up)
I. Historical Context: The Smiths and the Sound of the ’80s 🕰️
To truly understand "Bigmouth Strikes Again," we need to rewind to the 1980s. Imagine a musical landscape dominated by synth-pop extravagance, stadium rock bombast, and the polished sounds of the New Romantics. Then, out of Manchester, England, burst The Smiths, a band that dared to be different. They were like a perfectly brewed cup of tea in a world drowning in sugary soda.
The Smiths, formed in 1982, consisted of:
- Morrissey (Vocals): The charismatic, often controversial frontman with a penchant for dramatic pronouncements and a distinctive, melancholic croon.
- Johnny Marr (Guitar): The inventive and masterful guitarist who crafted intricate and melodic soundscapes, rejecting the prevailing trends of heavy metal shredding.
- Andy Rourke (Bass): The solid and reliable bassist who provided the rhythmic foundation for Marr’s guitar wizardry.
- Mike Joyce (Drums): The dynamic and energetic drummer who added a crucial rhythmic drive to the band’s sound.
The Smiths rejected synthesizers, opting instead for a guitar-driven sound that was both melodic and melancholic. Their lyrics, penned by Morrissey, were often witty, introspective, and addressed themes of alienation, social awkwardness, and unrequited love. In a decade often associated with excess, The Smiths offered a refreshing dose of sincerity and vulnerability.
Key Characteristics of The Smiths’ Sound:
| Feature | Description | Example in "Bigmouth Strikes Again" |
|---|---|---|
| Guitar Focus | Marr’s jangly, layered guitar parts were a defining element, creating a textured and melodic backdrop for Morrissey’s vocals. | The iconic opening riff and the soaring guitar melodies throughout the song. |
| Lyrical Wit | Morrissey’s clever and often self-deprecating lyrics explored themes of isolation, social anxiety, and romantic disappointment. | "Sweetness, sweetness I was only joking when I said I’d like to smash every tooth in your head" – a perfect example of Morrissey’s darkly humorous and contradictory style. |
| Melancholy Mood | Despite the often upbeat tempos, a sense of underlying sadness and longing permeated much of their music. | The overall tone of the song, despite its energetic delivery, hints at the character’s inner turmoil and regret. |
| Rejection of Synthesizers | The Smiths consciously avoided the use of synthesizers, opting instead for a more organic and guitar-centric sound. | The song relies entirely on guitars, bass, drums, and vocals, creating a raw and authentic sound. |
"Bigmouth Strikes Again," released in 1986 as part of their seminal album The Queen Is Dead, perfectly encapsulates these characteristics. It’s a song that’s both energetic and introspective, witty and melancholic, making it a quintessential Smiths track.
II. Lyrical Analysis: Morrissey’s Singular Voice and the Power of Self-Deprecating Humor 🗣️
Morrissey’s lyrics are the heart and soul of The Smiths. They are often described as poetic, witty, and deeply personal, resonating with listeners who feel like outsiders or misfits. "Bigmouth Strikes Again" is a prime example of Morrissey’s lyrical prowess, showcasing his ability to blend humor, self-deprecation, and social commentary into a captivating narrative.
The song tells the story of a character (presumably Morrissey himself) who is plagued by a tendency to speak out of turn, often with disastrous consequences. He is aware of his "bigmouth" and its capacity for causing trouble, yet he seems unable to control it. This self-awareness is key to the song’s appeal. We can all relate to the feeling of saying something we later regret, but Morrissey elevates this common experience to an art form.
Key Lyrical Themes:
- Self-Deprecation: The song is filled with self-deprecating humor, as the narrator acknowledges his own flaws and shortcomings. He is not presented as a hero, but rather as a flawed and relatable character.
- "And now I know how Joan of Arc felt" – This line, arguably the most controversial (we’ll get to that later), is also a self-deprecating comparison. The narrator is equating his own social struggles with the persecution of a historical figure.
- Social Commentary: The song can also be interpreted as a commentary on the dangers of speaking out against the status quo. The narrator is punished for his outspokenness, suggesting that conformity is often rewarded, while dissent is suppressed.
- "I was only joking when I said I’d like to smash every tooth in your head" – This line, while seemingly violent, can be interpreted as a metaphor for the frustration of being silenced or ignored.
- Guilt and Regret: The narrator expresses feelings of guilt and regret for his actions. He knows that his "bigmouth" has caused harm, and he is haunted by the consequences.
- "Why pamper life’s complexities when the leather runs smooth on the passenger seat?" – This line hints at the narrator’s internal conflict and his desire to escape the complexities of life.
Analyzing Key Lines:
Let’s break down some of the most memorable lines from "Bigmouth Strikes Again":
| Line | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| "Sweetness, sweetness I was only joking…" | This line establishes the narrator’s tendency to say things he doesn’t mean, or at least things he later regrets. It’s a classic example of Morrissey’s use of contradictory language. |
| "…when I said I’d like to smash every tooth in your head" | This line is shocking and violent, but it’s also likely a metaphorical expression of anger and frustration. It highlights the narrator’s tendency to express his emotions in extreme ways. |
| "Why pamper life’s complexities…" | This line suggests a desire to escape the complexities of life and to find solace in something simpler and more straightforward. It hints at the narrator’s feelings of alienation and disillusionment. |
| "…when the leather runs smooth on the passenger seat?" | This line evokes a sense of luxury and escape, suggesting that the narrator is seeking comfort and distraction from his problems. The "passenger seat" implies a passive role, perhaps suggesting a desire to avoid responsibility. |
| "And now I know how Joan of Arc felt" | This line is the most controversial in the song. It’s both a self-deprecating comparison and a potentially provocative statement about the narrator’s own experiences of persecution. We’ll delve into this further in the next section. |
Morrissey’s lyrics in "Bigmouth Strikes Again" are complex and multi-layered, inviting listeners to interpret them in their own way. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering a glimpse into the inner world of a flawed and relatable character.
III. Musical Structure and Instrumentation: A Symphony of Jangly Guitars and Bold Experimentation 🎶
While Morrissey’s lyrics are undoubtedly a major draw, the music of "Bigmouth Strikes Again" is equally important. Johnny Marr’s guitar work is nothing short of brilliant, creating a sonic landscape that is both energetic and melancholic. The song’s structure is unconventional, and the instrumentation is innovative, showcasing The Smiths’ willingness to experiment with sound.
Key Musical Elements:
- Jangly Guitars: Marr’s signature guitar sound is on full display in "Bigmouth Strikes Again." He uses a combination of clean tones, chorus effects, and tremolo to create a shimmering and ethereal soundscape.
- Driving Rhythm: The rhythm section of Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce provides a solid and energetic foundation for the song. The bassline is melodic and propulsive, while the drums are dynamic and inventive.
- Unconventional Structure: The song’s structure is not typical of pop songs. There are no traditional verses or choruses, but rather a series of interconnected musical phrases that build and release tension.
- "Vibraslap" Percussion: The use of a vibraslap (a percussion instrument consisting of a metal bar attached to a wooden block) adds a unique and distinctive touch to the song’s overall sound.
Analyzing the Song’s Structure:
The song’s structure can be roughly divided into the following sections:
- Intro: A jangly guitar riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention.
- First Section: Morrissey’s vocals enter, accompanied by a driving rhythm section.
- Second Section: The music builds in intensity, with Marr’s guitar adding layers of texture.
- "Joan of Arc" Section: This section features the song’s most famous lyric and a shift in the music’s dynamic.
- Instrumental Break: A soaring guitar solo by Marr, showcasing his technical skill and melodic sensibility.
- Outro: The song fades out with a repetition of the opening guitar riff.
The "Joan of Arc" vocal:
Famously, the backing vocals on the "Joan of Arc" line were performed by Johnny Marr sped up to sound like a woman. This was a conscious effort to add to the song’s strange and ambiguous feel, and to play with gender roles within the song’s narrative.
Instrumentation Breakdown:
| Instrument | Role in "Bigmouth Strikes Again" |
|---|---|
| Guitar | Johnny Marr’s guitars are the driving force of the song. He provides the jangly riffs, melodic counterpoints, and soaring solos that define the song’s sound. His use of effects, such as chorus and tremolo, adds to the song’s ethereal and atmospheric quality. 🎸 |
| Bass | Andy Rourke’s bassline provides a solid and melodic foundation for the song. He locks in with the drums to create a driving rhythm section that propels the music forward. His basslines are often more complex than typical rock basslines, adding to the song’s overall sophistication. 🎸 |
| Drums | Mike Joyce’s drumming is energetic and inventive, adding a crucial rhythmic drive to the song. He uses a variety of fills and accents to keep the music interesting and engaging. His drumming style is characterized by its precision and power. 🥁 |
| Vocals | Morrissey’s vocals are the focal point of the song. His distinctive croon and witty lyrics are instantly recognizable. He delivers the lyrics with a mix of irony, self-deprecation, and vulnerability. 🎤 |
| Vibraslap | The vibraslap adds a unique and unexpected touch to the song’s overall sound. Its percussive rattle adds a sense of urgency and excitement. It also serves as a sonic punctuation mark, highlighting key moments in the song. 🔊 |
The music of "Bigmouth Strikes Again" is a testament to The Smiths’ creativity and willingness to push boundaries. It’s a song that’s both catchy and complex, energetic and melancholic, making it a true masterpiece of indie pop.
IV. The "Joan of Arc" Controversy: A Glimpse into Morrissey’s Provocative Persona 🔥
The line "And now I know how Joan of Arc felt" is arguably the most controversial in "Bigmouth Strikes Again." It has been interpreted in various ways, ranging from a self-deprecating comparison to a deliberately provocative statement about the nature of persecution.
Interpretations:
- Self-Deprecation: One interpretation is that Morrissey is using the comparison to Joan of Arc as a form of self-deprecation. He is not literally equating his own experiences to those of a historical figure who was burned at the stake, but rather using the comparison to highlight his own feelings of being misunderstood and persecuted.
- Social Commentary: Another interpretation is that the line is a commentary on the dangers of speaking out against the status quo. Joan of Arc was persecuted for her beliefs, and Morrissey may be suggesting that he too is being punished for his outspokenness.
- Provocation: It’s also possible that Morrissey intended the line to be provocative. He has a history of making controversial statements, and the comparison to Joan of Arc may have been a deliberate attempt to shock and offend.
The Controversy:
The line has been criticized by some for being insensitive and trivializing the suffering of Joan of Arc. Others have defended it as a clever and thought-provoking use of metaphor.
Morrissey’s Persona:
The controversy surrounding the "Joan of Arc" line highlights Morrissey’s complex and often contradictory persona. He is known for his wit, intelligence, and sensitivity, but also for his tendency to make controversial statements. His willingness to challenge conventional wisdom and to provoke strong reactions is a key part of his appeal.
Why it Matters:
The "Joan of Arc" controversy is important because it raises questions about the role of art in society. Should artists be allowed to make controversial statements, even if those statements are offensive to some? Or should there be limits on what artists can say? There are no easy answers to these questions, but the controversy surrounding "Bigmouth Strikes Again" forces us to confront them.
V. Enduring Legacy: Why "Bigmouth Strikes Again" Still Matters Today 🕰️
Decades after its release, "Bigmouth Strikes Again" continues to resonate with listeners. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to a combination of factors:
- Timeless Themes: The song’s themes of alienation, self-deprecation, and the struggle to be heard are universal and timeless. They resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
- Musical Innovation: The song’s innovative instrumentation and unconventional structure continue to sound fresh and exciting. It’s a testament to The Smiths’ creativity and willingness to push boundaries.
- Morrissey’s Lyrical Genius: Morrissey’s lyrics are witty, insightful, and deeply personal. They offer a glimpse into the inner world of a flawed and relatable character.
- Cultural Impact: "Bigmouth Strikes Again" has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has been covered by numerous artists, featured in films and television shows, and continues to be played on radio stations around the world.
Influence on Other Artists:
"Bigmouth Strikes Again" has influenced countless artists across a variety of genres. Its jangly guitars, driving rhythm section, and witty lyrics have inspired generations of musicians.
Cultural References:
The song has been referenced in numerous films, television shows, and books. Its title has become a catchphrase, used to describe anyone who is prone to speaking out of turn.
Continued Relevance:
In a world that often feels isolating and overwhelming, "Bigmouth Strikes Again" offers a sense of connection and understanding. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that it’s okay to be flawed.
VI. Conclusion: Bigmouth Speaks Volumes 📣
"Bigmouth Strikes Again" is more than just a catchy indie pop song. It’s a complex and multi-layered work of art that explores themes of alienation, self-deprecation, and the struggle to be heard. Its innovative instrumentation, witty lyrics, and controversial content have made it a timeless classic.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering a glimpse into the inner world of a flawed and relatable character. It’s a song that reminds us that it’s okay to be different and that our voices matter, even if they sometimes get us into trouble.
So, the next time you hear "Bigmouth Strikes Again," take a moment to appreciate its brilliance. Listen closely to the lyrics, pay attention to the music, and consider the song’s cultural significance. You might just discover something new about yourself and the world around you.
And remember, even if you have a "bigmouth," your voice is important. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind, even if it means taking risks. After all, sometimes the biggest impacts come from those who dare to speak out. ✊
Further Listening:
- The Smiths – The Queen Is Dead (Album)
- The Smiths – Hatful of Hollow (Compilation Album)
- Johnny Marr – The Messenger (Solo Album)
Final Exam Question:
Explain, with specific examples, how "Bigmouth Strikes Again" exemplifies the key characteristics of The Smiths’ sound and why it continues to be a relevant and influential song today. (Extra credit for anyone who can convincingly argue whether or not Morrissey was right to compare himself to Joan of Arc!)
Class dismissed! 🚶♀️🚶♂️
