The Meaning Behind The Song: The Only Way Is Up by Yazz & the Plastic Population
In 1988, Yazz & the Plastic Population released their hit song “The Only Way Is Up,” which quickly became a popular dance song, topping the charts in various countries. The lyrics of the song are upbeat and empowering, encouraging listeners to keep striving towards their goals, no matter how difficult their journey may be.
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The Inspiration Behind the Song
“The Only Way Is Up” was actually a cover of a song originally recorded by Otis Clay in 1980. However, Yazz & the Plastic Population added their own spin on the song, making it a unique and memorable hit.
The song’s lyrics were a reflection of the struggles Yazz had experienced before finding success in the music industry. In a 1988 interview with The Irish Times, she revealed that the lyrics were inspired by her own journey, saying, “I had so many failures, but I never gave up. The only way is up from the bottom.”
The Message of the Song
At its core, “The Only Way Is Up” is a song about perseverance. The lyrics serve as a reminder that even when things seem bleak, there is always a way forward. Yazz sings, “We’ve been broken down to the lowest turn, Bein’ on the bottom line, Sure ain’t no fun.” These lyrics acknowledge the difficult situations that people may find themselves in, but also encourage listeners to keep pushing forward. The chorus of the song includes the lines, “Baby, for you and me now, The only way is up, baby, You and me now.” These lyrics serve as a reminder that, even when things seem impossible, it is important to keep moving forward and striving towards success.
The Music Video
The music video for “The Only Way Is Up” features Yazz and the members of the Plastic Population dancing and partying in a colorful, homemade-looking set. The video is a reflection of the upbeat, joyful nature of the song, and has a distinctly 80s vibe.
The Legacy of the Song
“The Only Way Is Up” remains a popular dance song today, having been featured in various movies and TV shows. In addition, the song’s message of perseverance has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless hit.
FAQs:
What was the inspiration behind “The Only Way Is Up”?
Yazz has said that the lyrics were inspired by her own journey, which included many struggles and failures before finding success in the music industry.
What is the message of the song?
At its core, “The Only Way Is Up” is a song about perseverance. The lyrics encourage listeners to keep striving towards their goals, even when things seem difficult.
Who originally recorded “The Only Way Is Up”?
“The Only Way Is Up” was originally recorded by Otis Clay in 1980.
Why did Yazz & the Plastic Population decide to cover the song?
Yazz & the Plastic Population likely decided to cover the song because they saw potential in its upbeat, catchy melody, and because they were able to add their own spin on it, making it a unique hit.
What is the legacy of “The Only Way Is Up”?
“The Only Way Is Up” remains a popular dance song today, having been featured in various movies and TV shows. The song’s message of perseverance has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless hit.
What other notable songs did Yazz & the Plastic Population release?
Yazz & the Plastic Population is perhaps best known for “The Only Way Is Up,” but they also had a few other popular hits, including “Stand Up for Your Love Rights” and “Fine Time.”
What impact did “The Only Way Is Up” have on the music industry?
“The Only Way Is Up” was a popular dance hit, and likely influenced the direction of pop and dance music in the late 80s and beyond.
What is the meaning behind the line “We’ve been broken down to the lowest turn”?
This line acknowledges the difficult situations that people may find themselves in, and suggests that even in the lowest moments, there is always a way forward.
What was the reaction to “The Only Way Is Up” when it was first released?
“The Only Way Is Up” was a popular hit when it was first released, topping the charts in various countries.
What does the chorus of the song (“Baby, for you and me now, The only way is up, baby, You and me now”) mean?
The chorus serves as a reminder that, even when things seem impossible, it is important to keep moving forward and striving towards success.
What inspired the colorful, homemade-looking set in the music video?
The colorful, homemade-looking set of the music video was likely inspired by the DIY aesthetic that was popular in the 80s.
What makes “The Only Way Is Up” a timeless hit?
“The Only Way Is Up” has a catchy melody and an empowering message that has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a timeless hit.
