EMF
Children
"Children" is a song by the British alternative dance band EMF, released in 1991 as the third single from their debut album Schubert Dip. Following the massive success of their chart-topping hit "Unbelievable," "Children" sought to further establish the band's unique blend of dance-rock energy with introspective lyrics. Written by EMF’s core members, including James Atkin (vocals), Ian Dench (guitar), Derry Brownson (keyboards), and Zac Foley (bass), the song was produced by Ralph Jezzard and the band.
Release and Chart Performance
"Children" was released on January 28, 1991, as the follow-up single to "I Believe" and "Unbelievable." While it didn’t replicate the blockbuster chart success of "Unbelievable," the song did perform respectably in various regions. In the UK, it peaked at No. 19 on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying EMF's presence as one of the most exciting emerging acts of the early '90s. It also reached No. 33 on the U.S. Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.
Album and Production Facts
The song is featured on EMF's debut album, Schubert Dip, which was a critical and commercial success. The album is known for its eclectic mix of indie rock, dance rhythms, and electronic elements, setting it apart from other acts of the time. "Children," with its melancholic yet danceable sound, embodies the album’s balance between introspection and high energy.
The recording sessions for Schubert Dip were a pivotal time for EMF, who were still honing their sound. Producer Ralph Jezzard worked closely with the band, combining the organic instrumentation of Dench’s guitar and Foley’s bass with programmed beats and synths. This fusion helped give "Children" its unique vibe, blending a brooding atmosphere with an anthemic chorus.
Song Meaning and Lyrics
"Children" tackles themes of disillusionment, youth, and the loss of innocence—topics that resonate deeply with young listeners. Lyrically, the song expresses frustration with societal expectations, materialism, and the way adulthood strips away the idealism of youth. In the opening lines, Atkin sings:
"You’re holding on / To something that’s not real"
This line sets the tone for the rest of the song, which reflects on how people often cling to false hopes and illusions, particularly as they grow older and face the pressures of conforming to societal norms.
The chorus repeats the haunting line:
"Children are innocent / A teenager's all messed up / An adult is a failure"
This cyclical narrative highlights the band's commentary on the loss of innocence as one grows older, with the ultimate conclusion that adulthood is often seen as a point of disillusionment or failure.
In interviews, guitarist Ian Dench has discussed how the song reflects the band’s own struggles with fame and the pressures of their rapid rise to success. Dench has mentioned that "Children" was partially inspired by their experiences growing up in England during the Thatcher era, a time marked by political and social turbulence. The song can be seen as a critique of how the world forces young people to grow up too quickly and the disillusionment that comes with adulthood.
Cultural Relevance
Though "Children" didn’t reach the same iconic status as "Unbelievable," it resonated with fans of early '90s alternative and dance music, becoming a favorite in the band’s live performances. The song’s exploration of youth and societal pressures struck a chord with the generation of young people coming of age during a time of cultural change.
The song has appeared in several TV shows and films over the years, mostly in the context of early '90s nostalgia. Though it may not be as widely featured as some of their other tracks, "Children" is often seen as a representation of EMF's more introspective side, contrasting with their high-energy, party-friendly hits.
Recording Facts and Interesting Moments
The recording of "Children" took place at Battery Studios in London, where the band laid down much of Schubert Dip. According to producer Ralph Jezzard, the band experimented with different textures and layers in the studio, blending live instruments with programmed beats. One notable fact from the recording sessions was how they managed to capture the raw emotion of James Atkin’s vocals, which add a sense of urgency to the song's message.
The band has mentioned that "Children" was a challenging track to record because they wanted to balance the melancholy nature of the lyrics with the uptempo, danceable sound. Ian Dench’s guitar riffs were designed to give the song a gritty edge, complementing Atkin's emotional delivery. Foley's bassline adds depth, grounding the song’s ethereal qualities with a solid groove.
Controversies
"Children" wasn’t directly tied to any major controversies, but EMF as a band had their fair share of provocative moments during their early career. Known for their wild live shows and the media attention they garnered after their massive success, the band was often lumped into the “madchester” scene, although they distanced themselves from it musically.
One indirect controversy tied to the album Schubert Dip was the sample of comedian Andrew Dice Clay's voice used in "Lies," another track on the record. The use of this sample led to a temporary ban of that song from certain platforms, although it did not affect "Children."
Notable Cover Versions
While "Children" hasn’t seen many high-profile cover versions, the song remains a cult favorite among fans of '90s alternative music. A few independent artists have recorded covers, often leaning into the song’s darker lyrical themes. These renditions typically strip the song of its dance elements, focusing more on the somber tone of the lyrics.
"Children" stands as one of EMF's most introspective and thought-provoking tracks. It reflects the band’s concerns about growing up in a confusing and often hostile world while managing to maintain an infectious rhythm. Although it didn’t achieve the commercial success of some of their other hits, it remains an important song in the band’s catalog, one that showcases their ability to tackle serious themes with both musical and lyrical depth. For fans of early '90s alternative music, "Children" remains a poignant reminder of the era's blend of youthful energy and introspective critique.