The Meaning Behind The Song: How Soon Is Now? [12″ Version] by The Smiths
The Smiths’ hit song “How Soon Is Now?” has been touted as one of the band’s most recognizable songs, despite the fact that it didn’t chart when it was released as a single in 1985. Despite this, it has remained a cult classic, appearing in various films, TV series, and commercials. Even though it wasn’t a commercial success, the song has gained recognition and popularity over time, for its unique sound, impressive lyrics, and a distinctive guitar riff.
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At its core, “How Soon Is Now?” is a song that explores feelings of depression, withdrawal, and isolation. The melancholic and introspective lyrics speak to the emotional state of the songwriter, Morrissey. The 12″ version of the song begins with an instrumental, featuring a mellow, haunting guitar riff, which sets the tone for the song that follows.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics are poetic, with complicated metaphors, which require more than just one interpretation. However, a recurring theme is loneliness and the search for connection. Morrissey writes about the feeling of being an outsider, looking in. It speaks to the pain and frustration of being isolated from others and the longing to belong. The haunting lyrics, “I am human and I need to be loved, just like everybody else does” hints at the greater need for human connection, which is universal.
The Guitar Riff And Its Impact
The guitar riff in “How Soon Is Now?” is legendary. It’s been praised and copied by countless musicians, recommended to aspiring guitarists, and graced in films, television episodes, and commercials. Johnny Marr of The Smiths is credited with its creation, and it’s his blend of reverb and slide guitar that makes the riff so memorable. It has a distinctive ethereal quality, which enhances the mood set by the lyrics.
The Legacy Of The Song
Over the years, “How Soon is Now?” has become a touchstone in alternative rock music history. It represents an era of 80s music, known for its guitar rock and Brit-pop sound, reflected in the song’s composition. This classic has continued to influence bands and artists long after The Smiths split. Despite its melancholic melody, the song remains a timeless piece whose popularity is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who wrote “How Soon Is Now?”
“How Soon Is Now?” was written by Morrissey and Johnny Marr, who were both founding members of The Smiths.
Q: What’s the meaning behind the title of the song?
The title of the song is interpreted to refer to the longing for love, connection, and belonging. The phrase “how soon is now” could be interpreted as a plea to the universe to fulfill the speaker’s desires.
Q: What inspired the lyrics of the song?
The lyrics of the song are inspired by Morrissey’s feelings of isolation, loneliness, and longing to belong. It is a reflection of his mental state during the period song was composed.
Q: Was “How Soon Is Now?” ever released as a single?
Indeed, it was. In 1985, “How Soon Is Now?” was released as a B-side to the single “William, It Was Really Nothing.” It failed to chart at the time of its release.
Q: Is there a specific occasion when the song was written?
The song was reportedly written in one afternoon by Marr and Morrissey while they were working on the B-side for their single “William, It Was Really Nothing.”
Q: What’s so special about the guitar riff in “How Soon Is Now?”
The guitar riff is unique and has an ethereal quality that enhances the mood of the song. The slide guitar and reverb effects used to create the riff have become iconic.
Q: Who else has covered the song?
Many bands and artists have attempted to cover “How Soon Is Now?” over the years, including T.A.T.U., Love Spit Love, and Soho. The song has been altered and adapted to suit different musical styles.
Q: Was the song featured in any movies or TV shows?
Yes, it was. The song has appeared in various films, including “The Craft,” “The Wedding Singer,” and “500 Days of Summer.” It has also been used in TV shows like “Charmed,” “Pretty Little Liars,” and “The Simpsons.”
Q: What’s the significance of the 12″ version of the song?
The 12″ version of “How Soon Is Now?” differs from the original version, featuring a longer, instrumental intro with a haunting guitar riff and sound effects resembling ghostly voices.
Q: Who is the producer of the song?
The song was produced by the British production team John Porter and engineered by Stephen Street.
Q: What was the reception the song received upon its release?
Despite the song’s cult status today, it didn’t perform well when it was first released in 1985. It never charted, and critics gave it mixed reviews at the time of its release.
Q: Has Morrissey ever spoken about the song’s meaning?
Yes, Morrissey has said in interviews that the song relates to his personal struggle regarding self-identity, self-doubt, and the need for love.
Conclusion
“How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths is the perfect blend of mesmerizing lyrics, haunting vocals, and psychedelic guitar riffs that illustrate the human experience of feeling isolated and in a constant search for love and belonging. The impact of the song is notable, and it’s clear that decades later, music lovers still enjoy and embrace it.
