Thursday, September 24, 2015

I Can't Feel My Face-- Now I Get It!

I've been annoyed at the song "Can't Feel My Face" by The Weeknd since I first heard it.  It says mostly the same lines over and over, and I don't have any idea what the hell it means.  And even though it annoys me, I know all those repeated lines and I end up singing along.  I can't help myself.  Ug.

But today, I made a huge discovery.

It's not just some stupid love song about loving someone so much it feels like your face is frozen and you can't feel it (what?). It's actually a drug reference song!  It's all about cocaine!  Once you think of the song in that context, it actually makes sense. 

I learned this on a really cool podcast I've recently started listening to called "Switched on Pop".  It's hosted by 2 guys, one's a musicologist, the other's a songwriter, and they discuss the making and meaning of popular music.

This week's episode on "Switched on Pop" is episode 20, and it's called "The Weekend: Dance Of Deception".  It's a fascinating 23 minute podcast.  So put on those sneaks, put in those earbuds, go for a brisk walk and have a listen.  You'll never think of that song the same way again!

2 comments:

Valerie said...

My sister and I were speculating about this recently--about whether it was about drugs, and then we looked it up, and sure enough. I admit--I still love the song though. And I think The Weeknd is so cute (despite the hair). :o)

Kerri said...

i don't even know what he looks like!
actually, i have to admit, i sorta like the song better know that i know it's a drug reference. at least it makes sense now!

someone else said they had heard that, but that the artist denied it. hm. if it's not, he's got some explaining to do! ;)