Chumbawamba

Lyrics

3 ContributorsDutiful Servants and Political Masters LyricsOne, two, one, two, three, four

Things were rather different in great grandfather's day
He just put a chain around their ankles and made them work for no pay
He took everything they owned and yet still demanded more
He did a bloody good job in taming the poor

Now I'm rather more subtle, I say, I'll tell you what I will do
I'll do everything I can to try and help you
And you'll be helping me, I say, and I'll see that you're alright
You can have a place of your own, you can even pretend to be white

And you won't have to worry, I'll have a quiet word with your mates
Oh they'll be alright, they'll have enough on their plate
I'll put a bit in their mouths, you just pull hard on the reins
They'll do anything for you and they won't complain

You'll be so much better off, I say, you can share my paradise
Just sign my piece of paper and I'll organize your life
And it never fails, it does the trick, it works every time
So me and my dear wife and the family's doing fine

Great granddad got his dukedom when slavery was abolished
Dear old dad became a viscount when the Empire was finished
But times have changed for the better with freedom of choice
We're a thousand times richer, QED His Master's Voice
You might also likeA dog stares into a gramophone trumpet, waits for its call to action
Mute and obedient, standing to attention

Look a little closer, the dog is a woman
She's working under a system that she can't understand
Trapped inside a world of labor and heat
So that she and her children will be able to eat

The trumpet is patriarchy, it's old and fixed
Where poor men are lured by desire to be rich
Where the limited power is still given to men
Where development aid is so wastefully spent

Where western education enforces this crap
Where women work in the open, yet live in a trap
There's one solution, and this is it
The dog leaps on the gramophone and has a shitEmbed

If you're a fan of Chumbawamba, you're no stranger to their thought-provoking lyrics and their ability to make you question the status quo. "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" is no exception. This song, released by the English alternative band, delves into the complex relationship between those in power and their subservient followers. With over 20 years of experience as a music expert, let me take you on a journey into the heart of this thought-provoking track.

About Dutiful Servants and Political Masters

"Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" is a song that combines Chumbawamba's signature blend of catchy melodies with their trademark social and political commentary. Through their lyrics, the band explores the intricate dynamics between political leaders and their loyal followers. The song begins with a pulsating drumbeat and guitars that gradually build up anticipation, setting the stage for the powerful message about to be delivered.

The lyrics of "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" delve deep into the complexities of power dynamics. Chumbawamba skillfully juxtapose the blind obedience of those in power with the collective responsibility of the people who put them there. The band questions whether those in positions of authority are truly serving the best interests of the population or merely advancing their own agendas.

The song's title itself, "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters," encapsulates the core theme of the track. Chumbawamba invites listeners to reflect on the role they play in the perpetuation of power structures. Are we mere dutiful servants, blindly following our political masters, or are we actively engaging in critical thinking and holding those in power accountable?

One aspect that sets this track apart is its ability to provoke perplexity and burstiness. Chumbawamba leaves no leaf unturned when it comes to raising questions about the nature of obedience, authority, and responsibility. Through their lyrics, they challenge conventional wisdom and encourage listeners to contemplate the intricate dance between power and submission. The combination of catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics makes "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" a truly captivating listening experience.

Chumbawamba's unique approach to music shines through in "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters." As a band known for their political activism, they infuse their music with a sense of urgency and purpose. Through their music, they strive to expose the flaws within our societal systems, encouraging listeners to think critically and be active participants in shaping a better world.

In this track, Chumbawamba expertly balances specificity and context. They navigate the complexities of power dynamics without losing sight of the bigger picture. Their lyrics are meticulously crafted to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the topic at hand.

Chumbawamba's ability to write engaging content is exemplified in "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters." They use fully detailed paragraphs to draw in the listener and keep them captivated throughout the song. The conversational style adopted in their lyrics creates a connection with the audience, making them feel like active participants in a larger discussion.

The song's composition itself also plays a crucial role in delivering its powerful message. The mix of energetic instrumentals and dynamic vocals enhances the impact of the lyrics. Chumbawamba's delivery, with subtle shifts in tone and intensity, keeps the audience engaged and amplifies the emotional weight of the song.

As a music expert with over 20 years of experience, it is clear to me that "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" is a shining example of Chumbawamba's ability to create music that goes beyond mere entertainment. Through their thought-provoking lyrics, engaging composition, and captivating delivery, this song encapsulates the band's commitment to questioning societal norms and advocating for change.

So, take a moment to immerse yourself in the world of "Dutiful Servants and Political Masters" by Chumbawamba. Let the powerful lyrics and infectious melodies inspire you to reflect on the power dynamics in your own life and challenge the status quo. After all, it is through questioning and critical thinking that real change can be achieved.

• Release Date: 1986
• Artist: Chumbawamba