The Meaning Behind The Song: Getting Away With It by Electronic
“Getting Away With It” is a song by the British group Electronic, comprising former members of New Order and The Smiths. Released in 1989, the song is a catchy pop-rock tune with themes of regret and self-acceptance at its core. Despite its upbeat tempo, the song’s lyrics delve into the darker shades of human emotion. In this article, we will take a closer look at the deeper meaning of “Getting Away With It.”
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
The song’s opening lyrics set the stage for its complex emotions:
“I’ve been walking in the rain just to get wet on purpose / I’ve been forcing myself not to forget just to feel worse.”
These lines suggest that the protagonist is deliberately seeking discomfort or pain, perhaps as a form of self-punishment. The following lines expand on this idea:
“I’ve been getting away with it all my life (getting away) / Getting away with it all my life (getting away)”
Here, the protagonist admits to having acted recklessly or selfishly for a long time without any consequences. The repetition of “getting away with it” emphasizes his sense of guilt and shame.
The Chorus
The chorus of the song reflects the protagonist’s conflicting desires:
“If there’s something inside that you wanna say / Say it out loud, it’ll be okay / I will be your light, I will be your light / I will be your light, I will be your light”
The repeated phrase “I will be your light” implies that the protagonist is seeking comfort or reassurance from someone else. However, the first line of the chorus suggests that he is also struggling to express his true feelings.
The Bridge
The song’s bridge provides a cathartic release:
“I’ve been walking in the dark just to find my way out / I’ve been giving out chances every time and all you do is let me down”
These lines suggest that the protagonist is finally ready to confront his past mistakes and move towards a brighter future. However, the final line also implies that he has been disappointed by others in the past.
The Instrumentation
“Getting Away With It” features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat drumming that belie the song’s introspective lyrics. This contrast between the music and lyrics is intentional, as it underscores the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
The Music Video
The song’s music video was directed by acclaimed filmmaker Pedro Romhanyi. The video features vignettes of different people expressing their emotions, interspersed with shots of the band performing on a rooftop. The video’s message is one of acceptance and empathy, emphasizing that everyone struggles with their inner demons.
The Legacy
“Getting Away With It” has remained a popular track in the years since its release. It has been covered by numerous artists, including The Feeling and James. The song’s themes of self-acceptance and moving on from past mistakes continue to resonate with listeners.
FAQs:
What inspired the lyrics of “Getting Away With It”?
The song’s co-writer, Bernard Sumner of New Order, has stated that the lyrics were inspired by his own struggles with guilt and regret. He has said that the song is about “realizing your own faults and the things you’ve done wrong in the past, and then trying to accept them and move on.”
Who produced “Getting Away With It”?
The song was produced by Stephen Hague, who had previously worked with both New Order and The Smiths.
What other songs are similar to “Getting Away With It”?
“Getting Away With It” shares some similarities with New Order’s hit “True Faith,” which also features introspective lyrics set against an upbeat pop-rock backdrop. Other songs with similar themes include “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper and “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.
Who are the members of Electronic?
Electronic was comprised of Bernard Sumner (vocals, guitar, keyboards), Johnny Marr (guitar, keyboards), and Neil Tennant (backing vocals).
What other songs did Electronic release?
Electronic released three studio albums: “Electronic” (1991), “Raise the Pressure” (1996), and “Twisted Tenderness” (1999). Some of their most popular songs include “Getting Away With It,” “Disappointed,” and “Forbidden City.”
Why did Electronic disband?
Electronic disbanded in 2001 due to tensions between Sumner and Marr. Both musicians went on to pursue solo projects.
What was the critical reception to “Getting Away With It”?
“Getting Away With It” was generally well-received by critics upon its release. AllMusic called it a “perfectly crafted pop song.” The song also received airplay on MTV and became a hit in the UK.
What is the meaning behind the song’s title?
The title “Getting Away With It” refers to the protagonist’s perception that he has been able to escape any consequences for his actions. It also implies a sense of guilt or shame for past misdeeds.
What impact did “Getting Away With It” have on popular music?
“Getting Away With It” helped to popularize the fusion of electronic and rock music in the late 80s and early 90s. The song’s use of synthesizers and drum machines set it apart from traditional rock songs of the time and influenced many subsequent artists.
What is the significance of the song’s music video?
The music video for “Getting Away With It” emphasizes the song’s themes of empathy and acceptance. By featuring vignettes of different people expressing their emotions, the video shows that everyone struggles with inner turmoil and that it’s okay to be vulnerable.
What is the lasting impact of “Getting Away With It”?
“Getting Away With It” remains a popular song that continues to inspire listeners with its themes of self-acceptance and moving on from past mistakes. Its legacy can be seen in the popularity of electronic and rock music fusion as well as the continued influence of New Order and The Smiths on popular culture.
