Faith No More

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Backside melts into the sofa
My world, my TV and my food
Besides listening to my belly gurgle
There ain't much else to do
Yeah, I sweat a lot
Nope, yeah, shit, uh
Pants fall down every time I bend over
My feet itch
Yeah, I married a scarecrow

[Chorus]
I hate you
Talking to myself
Everybody's staring at me
I'm only bleeding

[Verse 2]
Someone taps me on the shoulder every five minutes
No one speaks English anymore
Would anybody tell me if I was getting stupider?

[Chorus]
I hate you
Talking to myself
You don't feel it after awhile
You take the beating
[Bridge]
I'm a swingin' guy
Throw a belt over the shower curtain rod
And swing
Toss me inside a Hefty
And put me in the ground

[Verse 3]
A drink needs me
I don't
I ain't about to guzzle no tears
So kiss my ass
Newscasters and cockroaches and desserts

[Chorus]
I hate you
Talking to myself
Everybody's staring at me
I'm only bleeding, yeah

[Outro]
Where are the kids? I don't know
Maybe getting pregnant or on drugs or on welfare
On top of the world, on the honor roll, on parole
On the dodgers on the backs of milk cartons
On stakes in the middle of cornfields
On covers of future history books on old lady's mantles
Walkin' on water nailed on crosses
I think it's time I had a talk with my kids
I'll just tell 'em what my daddy told me
You ain't never gonna amount to nothin'

RV by Faith No More is a compelling song that offers a unique perspective on certain aspects of American culture. Written from the point of view of "white trash" America, the lyrics delve into the lives of individuals who are trapped in a cycle of mediocrity and despair. Mike Patton, the lead vocalist of Faith No More, described the song as a portrayal of a fat guy sitting in a trailer, consuming terrible food, watching mind-numbing television, and occasionally engaging in abusive behavior towards his family. Through this vivid portrayal, the song delves into a specific subculture within American society - the working-class, white-trash Americana.

The song's title, RV, is a clever metaphor for the stagnant and confined lives of those depicted in the lyrics. An RV typically symbolizes freedom, adventure, and the open road. In this context, however, it represents a symbol of entrapment and limited horizons. Faith No More's use of this metaphor adds depth and complexity to the song, inviting listeners to reflect on the disheartening reality of individuals caught in a cycle of disillusionment and restricted possibilities.

Lyrically, RV does not shy away from capturing the harsh and uncomfortable aspects of this particular subculture. The imagery created by phrases such as "horrible food," "horrible TV," and the suggestion of domestic abuse sheds light on the darker side of these individuals' lives. The song forces the listener to confront the uncomfortable truth that such realities do exist within American society, despite the gloss and glamour that often dominate popular culture representations.

The musicality of RV perfectly complements the song's thematic essence. Faith No More's hauntingly melancholic melodies set the tone for introspection and contemplation. The slow tempo, heavy guitars, and brooding atmosphere evoke a sense of resignation and powerlessness. Through their skillful composition, Faith No More manages to capture the emotions and complexities of the characters described in the song, amplifying the impact of the lyrics.

One of the song's remarkable attributes is its ability to spark conversation and generate introspection. RV serves as a mirror, reflecting the societal structures and inequalities that contribute to the existence of such a subculture. It asks listeners to examine their own assumptions and prejudices, and to question the systems that may perpetuate the hardship experienced by this particular segment of society.

About Faith No More

Faith No More, a highly influential alternative rock band, was formed in 1979 in San Francisco, California. The band's distinctive sound incorporates a fusion of heavy metal, funk, rock, and even elements of rap and pop. This unique blend of genres has earned Faith No More a devoted fan base and critical acclaim throughout their career.

With the release of their breakthrough album, "The Real Thing," in 1989, Faith No More achieved mainstream success and widespread recognition. The album featured the iconic hit single "Epic," which gained significant radio airplay and propelled the band into the spotlight. Known for their experimental and genre-bending approach, Faith No More continued to push musical boundaries over the years, exploring various sonic landscapes and themes.

While their musical versatility is undoubtedly impressive, one of Faith No More's greatest strengths lies in their ability to tackle challenging and thought-provoking subject matter through their lyrics. RV is a prime example of this, showcasing their willingness to address uncomfortable social issues and give a voice to those often overlooked or marginalized.

Concluding Thoughts

RV by Faith No More is a powerful and thought-provoking song that provides a glimpse into a specific subculture within American society. With its gritty portrayal of "white trash" America, the song pushes listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the lives of individuals trapped in cycles of despair and limited opportunity. Through their deeply introspective lyrics and haunting musicality, Faith No More stimulates conversation and offers an opportunity for reflection on societal structures and inequalities. RV stands as a testament to the band's commitment to artistic expression and their dedication to shedding light on the experiences of the often overlooked or marginalized.

• Release Date: June 8, 1992
• Artist: Faith No More