The Meaning Behind The Song: U-Mass by Pixies
Pixies, one of the most influential alternative rock bands of the 1980s, has never shied away from writing about controversial topics in their music. One such song is “U-Mass,” a track that appears on the band’s 1991 album “Trompe le Monde.”
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At first listen, “U-Mass” seems like a fast-paced, fun rock song. However, a deeper dive into the lyrics reveals a political statement about the role of education in society. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind “U-Mass” and the message that Pixies wanted to convey through their music.
The Background of U-Mass
Pixies wrote “U-Mass” in 1990 when the band was on a tour of Europe. They wrote the song in a hotel room in Frankfurt, Germany, while discussing the upcoming Gulf War and the role universities played in the protests against it.
At the time, the University of Massachusetts was a hotbed of political activism, and students were actively protesting against the war in Iraq. Pixies were impressed by the students’ passion and decided to write a song that paid homage to the University and their efforts to make the world a better place.
The Lyrics of U-Mass
The lyrics of “U-Mass” are straightforward, with a catchy melody that makes it easy to listen to. However, a closer look at the words reveals a political message that speaks to the heart of the band’s beliefs.
The song starts with the following lyrics,
“In the sleepy west of the woody east
Is a valley full, full o’ pioneer?
We’re not just kids, to say the least
We got ideas to us that’s dear”
These lines refer to the Pioneer Valley, where the University of Massachusetts is located. The band is making a reference to the fact that this area is full of activists and people who are passionate about making a change in the world.
The next set of lyrics talks about the Gulf War and how the students were protesting against it,
“Under a canopy, of trees and vines
Away from the numbing, ticking time
In sheltered grace we’re, all aligned
And moving forward, in all of time”
Here, the band is talking about the protests against the Gulf War and how the students at U-Mass were standing up against it. The lyrics also portray a sense of unity and determination among the protesters.
The chorus of “U-Mass” is the following,
“Go, go, go, go now
Outta here”
The band is urging the students to take action and make a difference in the world. The repeated “go now” emphasizes the urgency of the situation and encourages the students to act quickly.
The Message of U-Mass
The message behind “U-Mass” is clear – education can be a powerful tool for change. The song is a tribute to students who use their education to make a difference in the world.
The band believed that universities should be a place where students can learn to think critically about the world around them and engage in politics and activism. In “U-Mass,” Pixies are highlighting the importance of education in shaping a better future for all of us.
FAQs
1. What was the political climate at the time “U-Mass” was written?
The song was written in 1990 during the Gulf War, which was a time of political unrest and social upheaval. The University of Massachusetts was a hotbed of political activism and students were protesting against the war.
2. What inspired Pixies to write “U-Mass”?
Pixies were inspired by the passion and determination of the students at U-Mass, who were actively protesting against the war in Iraq. The band wanted to pay homage to the University and their efforts to make a change in the world.
3. Who is the song addressed to?
The song is addressed to the students of U-Mass and all students who are passionate about making a change in the world. Pixies wanted to encourage students to take action and use their education to make a difference.
4. What is the meaning behind the chorus of “U-Mass”?
The chorus of “U-Mass” is a call to action. The band is urging students to take action and make a difference in the world. The repeated “go now” emphasizes the urgency of the situation and encourages the students to act quickly.
5. What does the line “We’re not just kids, to say the least” mean?
The line “We’re not just kids, to say the least” is a reference to the fact that students are often dismissed as being too young or naïve to make a difference. The band is saying that students are capable of making big changes in the world.
6. What is the significance of the Pioneer Valley?
The Pioneer Valley is a region in western Massachusetts that is known for its political activism and progressive values. The University of Massachusetts is located in this area, and Pixies were impressed by the students’ passion for making a change in the world.
7. How did Pixies approach political themes in their music?
Pixies often wrote about controversial topics in their music and approached political themes with honesty and sincerity. The band believed that music had the power to bring people together and create a sense of community.
8. Has “U-Mass” had an impact on political activism?
While it is difficult to say whether “U-Mass” has had an impact on political activism, it is clear that the song has resonated with many people who are passionate about making a difference in the world.
9. What other political songs did Pixies write?
Pixies have written several politically charged songs, including “Debaser,” “Monkey Gone to Heaven,” and “Gouge Away.” The band often used their music as a platform to express their views on social and political issues.
10. What was the public’s reaction to “U-Mass” when it was released?
The public’s reaction to “U-Mass” was largely positive, and the song became a fan favorite. The track showcases the band’s ability to write catchy, meaningful songs that resonate with their audience.
11. How did Pixies influence the alternative rock genre?
Pixies are widely regarded as one of the most influential alternative rock bands of all time. Their unique sound and approach to music paved the way for bands like Nirvana, Radiohead, and The Strokes.
12. What is the legacy of “U-Mass”?
The legacy of “U-Mass” is that education can be a powerful tool for change. The song encourages students to take action and make a difference in the world. Pixies believed that music had the power to bring people together and create a sense of community, and “U-Mass” is a testament to that belief.
