Frankie Goes to Hollywood

Lyrics

4 ContributorsTwo Tribes (Annihilation) Lyrics(Johnson/Reagan Impersonation/Patrick Allen (PSA))

Ladies and gentlemen, let me present
Frankie Goes to Hollywood
Possibly the most important thing
This side of the world

Oh yeah, well 'ard!

[Break]

You may pronounce us guilty a thousand times over
But the Goddess of the Eternal Court of History
Will smile and tear to tatters the brief of the
State prosecutor and the sentence of this court
For she acquits us

Condemn me
Condemn me
Condemn me
History will absolve
Singing "this will be the day that I die"

Yeahhhhhaaaa
If your grandmother or any other member of the family
Should die whilst in the shelter
Put them outside, but remember to tag them first
For identification purposes
If your grandmother or any other member of the family
Should die whilst in the shelter
Put them outside, but remember to tag them first
For identification purposes
Go to war
Go to war
Go to war

Heh, just think of it
War breaks out and nobody turns up
If any member of the family
Should die whilst in the shelter
Put them outside, but remember to tag them first
For identification purposes
If any member of the family
Should die whilst in the shelter from contamination
Put them outside, but remember to tag them first
For identification purposes
If your grandmother or any other member of the family
Should die whilst in the shelter
Put them outside, but remember to tag them first
For identification purposes
If your grandmother or any other member of the family
Should die whil-
-identification purposes
Heh, it's enough to make you wonder sometimes
If you're on the right planet
You might also likeOw, ow, ow
Ow, ow
Let's go, ohh

When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score

Cowboy No. 1
A born-again poor man's son
On the air America
I modelled shirts by Van Heusen

Yeeaaahhhh
You know

When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
Working for the black gas

Switch off your shield
Switch off and feel
I'm working on loving, yeah
Giving you back the good times
Ship it out-out
I'm working for the black gas
When you hear the air attack warning
You and your family must take cover at once
Do not stay out of doors
If you are caught in the open, lie down

And now, here is a reminder about fallout warnings
When fallout is expected
You will here three bangs in short succession, like this
In some areas, the warning may be given
By means of three gongs, like this
Or you may hear three whistles
All these three types of sounds
Indicate that fallout is expected

When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
When you hear them
You must stay in the safest position in the house
Keep the doors shut
Do not go outside your house
We've got two tribes
Until you are told it is safe
Here is the all clear warning
Yeeaaahhhh
When you hear this sound
You can leave your house
Something must give now

Are we living in a land
Where sex and horror are the new Gods?
Yeeaaahhhh, ow, ow, ow
A point is all you can scoreEmbed

Picture this: It's the summer of 1984, and the world is on the brink of nuclear disaster. Amidst this tense atmosphere, a British band called Frankie Goes to Hollywood releases a song that reflects the collective anxiety and uncertainty felt during this tumultuous time. That song is "Two Tribes (Annihilation)." With its powerful and provocative lyrics, infectious beats, and thought-provoking message, "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" quickly became an anthem that resonated with listeners across the globe.

About Two Tribes (Annihilation)

"Two Tribes (Annihilation)" is a significant track from the album "Welcome to the Pleasuredome," released in 1984. This iconic song was written by members of Frankie Goes to Hollywood, including Holly Johnson, Peter Gill, Mark O'Toole, and Trevor Horn. It was produced by Trevor Horn, known for his spectacular work with artists like The Buggles and Yes.

The song opens with an attention-grabbing orchestral introduction, featuring snippets of well-known political speeches and soundbites. This immediately sets the stage for the underlying theme of global conflict and political tension. As the music intensifies, a thumping bassline takes over, accompanied by a pulsating drumbeat that evokes a feeling of urgency.

Frankie Goes to Hollywood's lead vocalist, Holly Johnson, delivers a commanding and impassioned vocal performance, perfectly capturing the anxiety and fear prevalent during the Cold War era. His powerful voice soars over the energetic instrumentation, demanding attention and driving home the song's message.

The lyrics of "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" are thought-provoking and confrontational, exploring the clash between opposing forces and the destructive potential of nuclear warfare. The song refers to the iconic phrase, "When two tribes go to war, one is all that you can score," highlighting the futility and devastation that arise from such conflicts.

"Two Tribes (Annihilation)" gained massive popularity due to its impactful music video, directed by Godley & Creme. The video depicts a memorable showdown between look-alike political leaders, symbolizing the power struggle and tensions between superpowers during the Cold War. The explosive visuals perfectly complement the song's powerful lyrics and reinforce its anti-war message.

Listening to "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" is like being transported back in time, allowing the listener to experience the raw emotion and energy surrounding the era. The track's production is masterful, combining electronic elements, catchy hooks, and a rock-influenced sound to create a unique and unforgettable musical experience.

One cannot discuss "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" without mentioning its impressive chart performance. The song exploded onto the music scene, reaching the pinnacle of success and solidifying Frankie Goes to Hollywood's status as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the time. It topped the charts in the United Kingdom, staying there for an impressive nine weeks – the longest consecutive stint at number one since the Beatles' "Hey Jude."

Beyond its chart success, "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its memorable refrain and powerful lyrics have been referenced and sampled by various artists in different genres throughout the years. The song's enduring impact demonstrates its significance in not only the music industry but also society as a whole.

In the grand scheme of things, "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" represents more than just an impressive chart-topper. It encapsulates a moment in history that was rife with anxiety and uncertainty, providing a voice for the collective fear felt by many. Frankie Goes to Hollywood's masterpiece continues to resonate with both new and old audiences, reminding us of the perils of global conflict and the importance of striving for peace.

If you haven't experienced the power of "Two Tribes (Annihilation)" yet, it's time to give this timeless classic a listen. Brace yourself for an electrifying journey that combines unforgettable melodies, captivating lyrics, and a message that remains highly relevant even today.

• Release Date: August 1984
• Artist: Frankie Goes to Hollywood