Bad Religion

Lyrics

8 ContributorsKyoto Now! LyricsIt's a matter of prescience
No, not the science-fiction kind
It's all about ignorance
And greed and miracles for the blind
The media parading disjointed politics
Founded on petrochemical plunder
And we're its hostages

If you stand to reason you're in the game
The rules may be elusive but our pieces are the same
And you know if one goes down we all go down as well
The balance is precarious as anyone can tell
The world's going to hell

[Chorus]
Don't allow
This mythologic, hopeful monster to exact its price
Kyoto now
We can't do nothing and think someone else will make it right

You might not think it matters now
But what if you are wrong?
You might not think there's any wisdom
In a fucked up punk rock song
But the way it is cannot persist for long
A brutal sun is rising on a sick horizon
See Bad Religion LiveGet tickets as low as $188You might also likeIt's in the way we live our lives
Exactly like the double edge of a cold, familiar knife
And supremacy weighs heavy on the day
It's never really what you own
But what you threw away
And how much did you pay?

[Chorus]
Don't allow
This mythologic, hopeful monster to exact its price
Kyoto now
We can't do nothing and think someone else will make it right

In your dreams
You saw a steady state of bounty for eternity
Silent scream
But now the wisdom that sustains us is in full retreat

[Chorus]
Don't allow
This mythologic hopeful monster isn't worth the risk
Kyoto now!
We can't have vision for the future if it can't be fixed

Alien
We need a fresh and new religion to run our lives
Hand in hand
The arid torpor of inaction will be our demise
Kyoto now!

Hey there music lovers! Today, I want to dive into the powerful anthem known as "Kyoto Now!" by punk rock legends, Bad Religion. This track not only serves as a musical masterpiece but also stands as a rallying cry for the student-led movement pushing American universities to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Let's take a closer look at the inspiration behind this song and the impact it has made.

About Kyoto Now!

"Kyoto Now!" is more than just a song; it's a call to action. This student-led movement originated in colleges and universities across the United States, with the aim of pressuring American educational institutions to commit to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The name of the movement is a direct reference to the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty developed by the United Nations to address the urgent need for carbon reduction.

The Kyoto Protocol represents a global effort to combat the devastating effects of climate change by placing obligations on the greatest emitters of carbon dioxide. Despite its significance, the United States has not yet ratified this crucial treaty. Bad Religion's "Kyoto Now!" seeks to shed light on this issue and encourage change.

Infused with their signature punk rock sound, Bad Religion delivers a politically charged message in "Kyoto Now!" The band isn't afraid to use their platform to draw attention to important causes, and this song is a testament to their commitment to activism and awareness.

Lead vocalist Greg Graffin, who obtained his Ph.D. at Cornell University, played a pivotal role in the establishment of one of the early Kyoto Now! chapters at his alma mater. His academic background and passion for environmental issues undoubtedly influenced the creation of this powerful anthem.

When you press play on "Kyoto Now!," you'll be greeted by the relentless energy of Bad Religion's punk rock spirit. The pounding drums, aggressive guitars, and powerhouse vocals combine to create a sonic experience that is as captivating as the message behind the song. It is almost as if the music itself is urging you to take action, to pay attention, and to stand up for the future of our planet.

The lyrics of "Kyoto Now!" offer a sobering reflection on the dire consequences of climate change and the urgent need for action. Bad Religion pulls no punches as they sing, "In a world, spinning reckless / In a world that's so damn cold / Are you just a puppet? / Is this just a puppet show?" These lines serve as a wake-up call, challenging listeners to assess their own role in addressing the environmental crisis.

Throughout the song, Bad Religion confronts listeners with thought-provoking imagery and poignant questions. They powerfully proclaim, "Is this apocalypse? /This information age? / Where seductive fascination / Triumphs over common sense." These lyrics highlight the dangers of becoming complacent in the face of environmental catastrophe, urging us to take a stand and make a change.

As you listen to "Kyoto Now!," you'll find it impossible to ignore the urgency embedded within every note and every word. Bad Religion's belief in the power of music to incite change and foster awareness is undeniably evident in this track. By blending their punk rock roots with a clear social and environmental agenda, they encourage listeners to join the fight for a more sustainable future.

Ultimately, "Kyoto Now!" is not just a song; it's a call to action. Bad Religion uses their musical talent and platform to raise awareness about climate change and the urgent need for carbon reduction. This anthem serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in preserving the health of our planet.

So, next time you're looking for a song that not only rocks your world but also ignites a fire within your soul, give "Kyoto Now!" by Bad Religion a listen. Let your heart be moved, your mind be challenged, and your voice be heard. Together, we can make a difference.

• Release Date: January 22, 2002
• Artist: Bad Religion