The Meaning Behind The Song: Angeles by Elliott Smith
Elliott Smith was one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 90s, known for his heartfelt, melancholic music and introspective lyrics. One of his most popular songs, “Angeles” from his album “Either/Or,” is widely regarded as a masterpiece and a quintessential example of Smith’s craft.
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At its core, “Angeles” is a song about the struggles of creativity and the difficulties of being a musician in a world that doesn’t always appreciate or understand the art. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s experiences in Los Angeles and the pressure he feels to succeed in the music industry. Smith sings, “Someone’s always coming around here, trailin’ some new kill, says ‘I seen your picture on a hundred dollar bill, and what’s a game of chance to you, to him is one of real skill.'”
The song also touches on themes of loneliness and addiction, as the narrator grapples with his own demons and the temptations of fame and fortune. He sings, “Don’t start me trying now, cause I’m all over it, I can’t stand to see you staring, at the same old skyline, trick of light to fool the mind, I’m expanding the foreground.”
Overall, “Angeles” is a poignant and powerful reflection on the challenges of pursuing one’s dreams and the emotional toll it can take. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics have touched millions of people over the years and cemented Elliott Smith’s legacy as one of the greatest songwriters of all time.
FAQs About Angeles
1. What inspired Elliott Smith to write “Angeles?”
According to Smith himself, “Angeles” was inspired by his experiences living in Los Angeles and the struggles he faced as an up-and-coming musician. He has stated in interviews that the song is about “the business of music and the heavy expectations that exist within that world.”
2. What does the title “Angeles” mean?
The title is a play on words, as it can be read either as “Angels,” which suggests a more positive and hopeful tone, or “Angeles,” which is a reference to the city of Los Angeles and the darker themes that the song explores.
3. What is the meaning of the lyrics “Don’t start me trying now, cause I’m all over it?”
This line is a reference to the narrator’s struggles with addiction and the temptations of fame. He is essentially saying that he doesn’t want to go down that road again because he is already consumed by his demons.
4. What is the significance of the line “I seen your picture on a hundred dollar bill?”
This line is a reference to the idea of success and fame in the music industry, and how it can be a double-edged sword. It suggests that the protagonist has achieved a certain level of notoriety, but at a great cost to his integrity and artistic vision.
5. Is “Angeles” based on a real person?
There is no definitive answer to this question, but many fans and critics have speculated that the song is based on Smith’s own experiences and struggles in the music industry.
6. What is the significance of the line “I’m expanding the foreground?”
This line is a reference to Smith’s unique approach to songwriting and his focus on creating intricate, layered soundscapes. He is essentially saying that he is exploring new territory and pushing the boundaries of his craft.
7. Is “Angeles” a sad song?
Yes, “Angeles” is often described as a melancholic and haunting song that deals with heavy themes of addiction, fame, and artistic struggle. However, it is also a deeply beautiful and moving piece of music that has touched many people over the years.
8. What other songs are similar to “Angeles”?
Some other songs in Elliott Smith’s discography that share a similar tone and theme to “Angeles” include “Between the Bars,” “Miss Misery,” and “Say Yes.”
9. What genre of music is “Angeles”?
“Angeles” is typically classified as indie rock or folk rock, but it also incorporates elements of pop and acoustic music.
10. What is the story behind the album “Either/Or”?
“Either/Or” is widely considered to be Elliott Smith’s breakthrough album, released in 1997 to critical acclaim and commercial success. The album is named after the book of the same name by Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard and features many of Smith’s most enduring songs.
11. What is the legacy of “Angeles”?
“Angeles” is considered to be one of the greatest songs in Elliott Smith’s extensive catalog and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of indie rock and folk music. The song has been covered by many other artists over the years and has inspired countless musicians with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody.
12. What is the importance of Elliott Smith in music history?
Elliott Smith is widely regarded as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his generation and a pioneer of the indie rock and folk genres. His introspective and emotionally charged music has touched millions of people around the world and cemented his legacy as a true icon of the alternative music scene.
