Violent Femmes
Blister in the Sun
The Violent Femmes' iconic song "Blister in the Sun" is a perplexing and enduring track that has achieved cult classic status over the years. Released in 1983 on their self-titled debut album, this alternative rock anthem is both immediately catchy and deeply unsettling, with lyrics that remain open to wildly varying interpretations. Let's delve into its history, cultural impact, and the ongoing debate about its true meaning.
Origins and Chart Performance
- Songwriter: Gordon Gano, lead vocalist and guitarist of the Violent Femmes
- Year Released: 1983
- Album: Violent Femmes
- Chart Position: While not a major chart success upon its initial release, "Blister in the Sun" climbed to No. 97 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart when rereleased in 1997.
Appearances in Media
"Blister in the Sun" has found a second life in film and television, adding to the song's mystique:
- Grosse Pointe Blank (1997): This dark comedy featured the song prominently, giving it wider exposure and contributing to its enduring popularity.
- The Man Who Loved Yngve (2008): This Norwegian romantic drama used it as a central musical theme.
- Other Appearances: The song has also popped up in TV shows like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and advertisements.
**Blister in the Sun: The Debate Rages On **
The song meaning of "Blister in the Sun" is a contentious debate that has intrigued audiences for decades. Here are some of the predominant theories:
- Masturbation: One of the most common (and racy) interpretations is that the song is about self-pleasure. This is fueled by lyrics like "Let me go on…like I blister in the sun" and references to body parts.
- Drug Use: Many believe it alludes to the disorienting highs and lows of drug use, supported by lines such as "I'm so strung out."
- Mental Illness: The song's frantic pace and disjointed lyrics could reflect the experience of mania or psychosis.
- Alienation and Social Discomfort: The song could express feelings of isolation and a desire for a deeper connection that is constantly out of reach.
Gano himself has remained deliberately vague about the song's meaning. In past interviews, he's suggested that it may even be nonsensical. This ambiguity has allowed for a multiplicity of interpretations, enhancing the song's lasting appeal.
Song Lyrics
The lyrics are strange and stream-of-consciousness, adding to their puzzling nature. Here's a look at some notable lines:
"When I'm walkin' I strut my stuff, man I'm so strung out I'm high as a kite I just might stop to check you out Let me go on, like I blister in the sun Let me go on, big hands I know you're the one"
Recording and Controversies
The raw energy of "Blister in the Sun" is partly due to its spontaneous recording process. The band captured the song live in a basement studio, laying the basic tracks down in the space of a few hours.
The song's lyrics, particularly the opening line "When I'm walkin' I strut my stuff" have been criticized for potentially sexualizing a young girl. This has caused some radio stations to hesitate in playing "Blister in the Sun".
Notable Cover Versions
Several artists have put their spin on "Blister in the Sun":
- Bikini Kill: This riot grrrl band offered a feminist and punk-infused take on the song.
- Placebo: Their atmospheric cover version emphasized the darkness within the original song.
Legacy
"Blister in the Sun" is a remarkable enigma in the world of popular music. It's a song that remains both instantly recognizable and utterly inscrutable. Its cryptic lyrics, infectious energy, and cult status ensure that "Blister in the Sun" will continue to fascinate and provoke music fans for years to come.