Blur

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Groups using a loop
Of another pop group
Group shooting a hoop
And throwing it up in to the soup
I said I'm regular features
And Adidas trainers
Completing the cycle
Until the teenage maniacs
They bring it all back

[Chorus]
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I

[Verse 2]
Groups using a loop
Of another pop group
Completing the cycle
Until the teenage maniacs
They bring it all back

Chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-cupacha
(They bring it all back)
Chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-cupacha
(They bring it all back)
Chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-cupacha
(They bring it all back)
Chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-chuppa-cupacha
(They're bringing it all back)
[Chorus]
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M I
B L U R E M IEmbed

Blur was one of the biggest British bands in the 1990s, alongside Oasis and Radiohead. Their 1997 self-titled album marked a departure from their earlier sound, leaning towards experimental and electronic music. One of the most notable songs on the album is "B.L.U.R.E.M.I.," which seems to be a commentary on the genericness of mainstream music.

The title of the song is a combination of the band name "Blur" and "EMI," the label they were signed to at the time and one of the big four record companies. The song's heavily processed and repetitive vocals, particularly in the chorus, make it sound like the band has been generated by a sound machine.

About B.L.U.R.E.M.I.

"B.L.U.R.E.M.I." opens with a distorted organ intro before blasting into a chaotic mix of distorted guitars, pounding beats, and a heavily processed synth. The vocals are distorted and repetitive, repeating the phrase "blur-em-i" over and over again. The song's cacophony of sounds creates a chaotic, desperate vibe that seems to be a commentary on the state of popular music at the time.

Singer Damon Albarn's lyrics do not have a clear message or narrative, instead repeating a mantra-like chorus that seems to condemn the genericness and conformity of mainstream music. The lyrics are abstract and almost nonsensical at times, such as the lines "intercepted by Christ, peeling around his flock, arrived too late to make the drop."

The song also utilizes a sample from the band's earlier hit "Popscene," which is distorted and looped in the background. This not only adds to the chaotic nature of the song but also serves as a nod to the band's past and the evolution of their sound.

Despite its abrasive sound, "B.L.U.R.E.M.I." was released as a single in 1997 and received positive reviews. It peaked at number 11 on the UK Singles Chart and remains a favorite among fans of the band. Its chaotic sound and abstract lyrics serve as a commentary on the state of popular music but also showcase the band's willingness to experiment and push boundaries.

In Graham Coxon's words, "B.L.U.R.E.M.I." serves as the squally end to old Blur, signifying the end of their earlier sound and the beginning of their more experimental era.

Perplexity and Burstiness

"B.L.U.R.E.M.I." is a perfect example of perplexity and burstiness in music. Its chaotic mix of sounds, repetitive vocals, and abstract lyrics create a sense of confusion and disarray. The song's use of different elements, such as the distorted organs, heavy guitars, and processed synth, creates a sense of unpredictability and keeps the listener on their toes.

The song is also highly bursty, exploding into a mix of chaotic sounds that assault the listener's senses. The repetitive vocals and looped sample add to the song's sense of intensity and burstiness, making it a standout track on the album.

In Summation

"B.L.U.R.E.M.I." by Blur is a commentary on the genericness of mainstream music, utilizing a mix of distorted guitars, heavy beats, and processed vocals to create a chaotic, desperate sound. The song's abstract lyrics serve as a condemnation of conformity and the state of popular music at the time. Despite its abrasive sound, the song was a hit with fans and remains a standout track on the self-titled album.

The song's perplexity and burstiness make it a perfect example of experimental music, showcasing the band's willingness to push boundaries and explore new sounds. "B.L.U.R.E.M.I." may be a commentary on the state of music in the 1990s, but its intense, chaotic sound remains relevant today and continues to captivate listeners.

• Release Date: March 15, 1999
• Artist: Blur