David Bowie

Lyrics

[Intro]
I know when to go out
Know when to stay in
Get things done

[Verse 1]
I catch the paper boy
But things don't really change
I'm standing in the wind
But I never wave bye-bye
But I try
I try

[Verse 2]
There's no sign of life
It's just the power to charm
I'm lying in the rain
But I never wave bye-bye
But I try
I try

[Chorus]
Never going to fall for
(Modern love) Walks beside me
(Modern love) Walks on by
(Modern love) Gets me to the church on time
(Church on time) Terrifies me
(Church on time) Makes me party
(Church on time) Puts my trust in God and man
(God and man) No confessions
(God and man) No religion
(God and man) Don't believe in modern love
[Verse 3]
It's not really work
It's just the power to charm
Still standing in the wind
But I never wave bye-bye
But I try
I try

[Chorus]
Never going to fall for
(Modern love) Walks beside me
(Modern love) Walks on by
(Modern love) Gets me to the church on time
(Church on time) Terrifies me
(Church on time) Makes me party
(Church on time) Puts my trust in God and man
(God and man) No confessions
(God and man) No religion
(God and man) Don't believe in modern love
(Modern love) Walks beside me
(Modern love) Walks on by
(Modern love) Gets me to the church on time
(Church on time) Terrifies me
(Church on time) Makes me party
(Church on time) Puts my trust in God and man
(God and man) No confessions
(God and man) No religion
(God and man) Don't believe in modern love
Modern love, modern love, modern love, modern love
Modern love, modern love, modern love, modern love
(Modern love, modern love, modern love, modern love)
Modern love, walks beside me (Modern love)
Modern love, walks on by (Modern love)
Modern love, walks beside me (Modern love)
Modern love, walks on by (Modern love)
Never gonna fall for
(Modern love, modern love, modern love, modern love)

If you're a fan of David Bowie, then you might have heard the song "Modern Love." This hit single from 1983 was one of Bowie's most successful songs and it's a fan favorite. But do you know the story behind the song? In this article, we will delve into the details of "Modern Love," including its inspiration and success.

About Modern Love

David Bowie's "Modern Love" is a song from his Let's Dance album. The song was released in 1983 and was the first song on the album. Bowie claimed that the song was inspired by the legendary Little Richard, particularly his "back and forth" lyrics. The song features upbeat and catchy instrumentals, with a blend of guitars, drums, and saxophones.

"Modern Love" is a song that speaks to the heart of love in the modern era. The lyrics explore the complexities and challenges of love, particularly in the digital age when people are more connected than ever, yet often feel more isolated and lonely. Bowie's vocals in this song are powerful and emotive, adding to the depth and emotion of the lyrics.

The song was an international success, reaching the top ten in several countries including the UK, where it peaked at number two. In the US, the song peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's success can be attributed to its catchy tune, relatable lyrics, and Bowie's star power.

The Meaning Behind the Lyrics

The lyrics of "Modern Love" are open to interpretation, but they speak to the complexities of love in the modern age. The song is about the challenges of navigating love in a world where people are more connected than ever, yet often feel disconnected and alone.

Bowie sings, "I know when to go, out/ And when to stay in get things done," which shows the importance of striking a balance between socializing and staying in to focus on oneself. He then questions, "Do you remember a gothic beat?," which can symbolize the feeling of being nostalgic for a time when love was simpler and less complicated.

Bowie also touches on the idea of love being a gamble, with lyrics like "Til you feel love, its whole intention/ Then you've been hooked." The lyrics emphasize that love can be a risky endeavor, but it is worth it when one finds true love.

The Instrumentals

"Modern Love" is a song with a catchy tune, thanks to the triumphant instrumentals that accompany Bowie's powerful vocals. The song has a blend of guitars, drums, and saxophones, which gives it a unique and memorable sound. The saxophone solo in the middle of the song is particularly noteworthy, as it adds a jazzy element to the upbeat pop-rock track.

The song is a fusion of different genres, which was a hallmark of Bowie's career. The combination of rock, pop, and jazz elements make "Modern Love" a standout track, and one that has stood the test of time.

Conclusion

David Bowie's "Modern Love" is a song that speaks to the complexities of love in the modern age. The catchy tune, emotive vocals, and powerful instrumentals make it a standout track in Bowie's vast repertoire of music. The song's success can be attributed to its relatable lyrics, unique style, and Bowie's star power. "Modern Love" is a reminder that love can be complicated, but it's worth the risk.

• Release Date: September 12, 1983
• Artist: David Bowie