Table Of Content

The lead singer/lyricist of The Beach Boys talks about coming up with the words for "Good Vibrations," "Fun, Fun, Fun," "Kokomo" and other classic songs. For this song, Madness collaborated with string arranger David Bedford for the first time. According to lead singer Graham “Suggs” McPherson, Bedford understood exactly what the band needed and added a unique touch to their sound, elevating their records. This collaboration gave the song its memorable and timeless quality. “Our House” was written by Cathal “Chas Smash” Smyth, Madness’ singer and multi-instrumentalist, along with guitarist Chris Foreman.
Missing lyrics by Madness?
The guys who wrote "Take Me Out To The Ballgame" had never been to a baseball game but knew it was a good song topic. Yet he’s writing this as an adult who knows that this is a scene set in a somewhat distant past, one that can’t be recaptured. And it remains a track that will leave you smiling at your own childhood memories, even as you wonder why you didn’t hold on tighter to the events as they occurred. How did Madness conceive of the song using somewhat primitive recording techniques?
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
Why Hip-Hop Feels Like Home - The New York Times
Why Hip-Hop Feels Like Home.
Posted: Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
This is where they lived and as suchthe source of many of the singer’s memories. This residence was located‘in the middle of the street’, which may be just as much of a symbolic locationas a literal one. Thusthere was always some sort of a commotion going on, not in a bad sense but interms of the place always being lively and ‘crowded’. As far as the parents are concerned, it is pretty-clear that this is a working-class family. And the mother is preoccupied, indeed even stressed out, with having to care for him, the home and the children.
Music video
The chorus emphasizes the central theme of the song, describing the house as being in the middle of their street, symbolizing the heart of their family. “Our House” by Madness is a classic ’80s pop song that tells a story about family life in working-class London. As a fan of this song, I have always been captivated by its catchy melodies and relatable lyrics. Released in 1982, it became Madness’ only Top 10 hit in the U.S., while in the UK, the band had a string of successful singles throughout the ’80s. In the world of music, there are songs that transcend time and trends. One of those timeless classics is “Our House” by the British ska band, Madness.
More Madness Lyrics
In the U.K., they were massive—this is one of 20 straight singles they landed in the Top 20 between 1979 and 1985. The lyrics are apparently derived from his recollections as a child, and the addressee reads as if it may be one of his siblings or someone he grew up with. Suddenly, “Our House” transformed into a suave, effervescent pop song, complete with strings and horns.
Genius is the world’s biggest collection of song lyrics and musical knowledge
The bridge takes us back in time to when everything was true and the family used to have a great time, simply wasting the day away. It reminds us of the carefree nature of childhood and the strong bond shared by the family members. The pre-chorus and chorus are repeated, driving home the central message of the song. In 1982, Madness released their fourth album, entitled The Rise & Fall. “Our House” was included on that record, and it added to the ever-growing hit parade for the band in England.
The song was not only a commercial success but also a cultural milestone that captured the essence of growing up in a working-class neighborhood. In this article, we’ll dive into the meaning behind the song and explore the story that inspired this hit. “Our House” is a classic ‘80s pop song about family life in working-class London.
More songs from Madness
So conclusively, we can put forth a theory akin to the singer having in fact enjoyed his childhood. And what he relished the most was the family he was a part of who were embodied, so to speak, by the goings-on in their house. “Our House” has continued to be a beloved classic since its release nearly 40 years ago. The song has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. In Gary Numan's "Cars," the message is that cars lead to a mechanical society devoid of personal interaction. Old Time Music is proud to have such a passionate and talented team of writers who share their love for music with our readers.
Popular Madness Lyrics

It became an anthem for the working-class youth, who were often marginalized and overlooked in mainstream media. “Our House” became an instant hit in the UK upon its release, topping the charts for 10 weeks in 1982. The song was praised for its upbeat melody and relatable lyrics, which resonated with listeners from all walks of life. “Our House” was written by Madness frontman Suggs and guitarist Chris Foreman in 1982. According to Suggs, the inspiration for the song came from his own childhood memories. He wrote the lyrics based on his experiences of growing up in a council house in Camden Town, London.
But that one song, “Our House,” stands as one of the most beloved songs of the ’80s. In addition to its commercial success, “Our House” has also won critical acclaim. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 1983. It has also been included in multiple “best of” lists, including Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The Meaning Behind "Our House" by Madness and How They Finally Got Their Shot in America - American Songwriter
The Meaning Behind "Our House" by Madness and How They Finally Got Their Shot in America.
Posted: Sun, 17 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
We hope you enjoy the articles and insights they bring to our platform. The music video to “Our House”, which was filmed primarily in London, was directed by Dave Robinson. "On The Floor" by Jennifer Lopez samples the 1989 song "Lambada," which you might remember is about "The Forbidden Dance." The Kate Bush song "Why Should I Love You?" is a collaboration with Prince. He completely re-worked her demo, so Bush spent a lot of time piecing it back together to keep her imprint.
The timeless appeal of “Our House” continues to resonate and capture the essence of what it means to call a house a home. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics have made it a classic that continues to be loved by people from all generations. But beyond its commercial success, “Our House” is a celebration of the working-class culture that inspired it. The lyrics of “Our House” paint a vivid picture of everyday family life. It begins with the image of a tired mother and a father wearing his Sunday best. The children are described as playing downstairs, while sister sighs in her sleep and brother has a date to keep.
“Our House” offers a look back to childhood that’s both nostalgic and bittersweet all at once. But there are also sly references in the lyrics about how childhood goes by so quickly and how we’re too young to cherish it as it does. Geffen put out a slightly altered version of The Rise & Fall in America, with “Our House” quickly dispatched to U.S. radio and MTV. Madness delivered as many hits as any British band of their era, at least within the United Kingdom. Surprisingly, only one of those smashes broke big in the United States.
The song has inspired countless musicians and artists, who have drawn inspiration from its lyrics and melody. It has become a symbol of working-class resilience and a celebration of the power of home and family. MTV, a popular TV theme song and Madonna all show up in this '80s music quiz.
Add in the deadpan-yet-charming vocals from Madness lead singer Suggs (Graham McPherson), and you had a pretty perfect single. Beyond its commercial success, “Our House” also became an iconic symbol of working-class culture. The song’s portrayal of everyday life in a council house struck a chord with many people who grew up in similar circumstances.
No comments:
Post a Comment