The Meaning Behind The Song: Suicide Blonde by INXS

The Psychology and Creativity behind INXS’s “Suicide Blonde”

Table of Contents

Introduction

INXS was a band that dominated the charts in the 1980s and 90s with a string of hits like “Need You Tonight,” “New Sensation,” and “Never Tear Us Apart.” But one of their lesser-known songs, “Suicide Blonde,” deserves recognition for its intriguing lyrics, catchy beat, and controversial title. The song was released in 1990, and while it was heavily criticized for its use of the term “suicide,” it remains a fascinating example of how art can be interpreted in different ways. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind “Suicide Blonde” and discuss the psychology and creativity of its creators.

The Lyrics

The opening lines of “Suicide Blonde” are: “Suicide blonde, was the color of her hair/ Like a cheap distraction for a new affair.” It’s clear from the outset that the song is not about a real person but a type of woman who is both alluring and dangerous. The “suicide blonde” is someone who lives on the edge, who is willing to take risks and break rules. She is not interested in playing it safe, and she knows how to get what she wants.

The chorus of the song declares, “She wants to be the one/ Well, don’t you know that this could be the end of you?” This line is a warning, a reminder that the pursuit of pleasure and excitement can have dire consequences. The “end” could mean physical death, but it could also mean personal destruction or loss of identity. The song suggests that the danger of the suicide blonde is not just about external threats but internal ones as well.

The Controversy

Despite the song’s popularity, “Suicide Blonde” was criticized for its use of the word “suicide.” Some felt that the term was offensive and trivialized the seriousness of mental health issues. INXS defended their use of the word, stating that it referred to a specific type of blonde hair dye that was trendy at the time. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding the song highlights the sensitivity surrounding language and mental health.

The Psychology

In the psychology of the “suicide blonde,” we see the tension between risk-taking and self-destruction. The suicide blonde is someone who is willing to take on dangerous challenges, but she may also have an underlying death wish or self-destructive tendencies. She may be rebelling against societal norms or personal expectations, seeking to break free from constraints that prevent her from being her true self. But her rebellion is not without risks, and she may be unaware of the toll it takes on her mental and emotional wellbeing.

The psychology of the “suicide blonde” is both intriguing and complex, touching on themes of identity, risk-taking, and self-destruction. In this sense, the song is not just a description of a type of woman but a commentary on the human condition itself.

The Creativity

One of the reasons why “Suicide Blonde” stands out as a piece of art is its originality and creativity. The song mixes up different genres and sounds, from rock and pop to funk and dance, creating a unique hybrid that defies categorization. The use of saxophone and percussion gives the song an exotic and sensual quality, while the chorus is pure pop perfection. The lyrics are clever and catchy, full of puns and double entendres that keep the listener engaged.

But the creativity of “Suicide Blonde” goes beyond its musical and lyrical elements. The song also challenges the listener to think deeply about the meaning behind the words, to question their assumptions and biases. It invites us to consider the complexity of human nature, the duality of risk-taking and self-destruction, and the need for balance and self-awareness.

Conclusion

“Suicide Blonde” may not be INXS’s most famous song, but it is one of their most intriguing and thought-provoking works. It challenges us to think critically about the language we use and the way we perceive mental health. It invites us to explore the psychology of risk-taking and self-destruction and the importance of balance and self-awareness. And it showcases the power of creativity to inspire and challenge us, to open our minds and hearts to new perspectives and possibilities.