Frankie Goes to Hollywood

Lyrics

4 ContributorsTwo Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) LyricsThe air attack warning sounds like
This is the sound

When you hear the air attack warning
You and your family must take cover

Ow, ow, ow
Ow, ow
Let's go

When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
Score no more
Score no more
When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
Working for the black gas

Cowboy No. 1
A born-again poor man's son
Poor man's son
On the air America
I modeled shirts by Van Heusen, yeah
Working for the black gas

You know
When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
Score no more
Score no more
When two tribes go to war
A point is all you can score
Working for the black gas
You might also likeSwitch 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

Tell the world that you're winning
Love and life
Love and life

Listen to the voice sing
Follow me
Listen to the voice sing
Follow me

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

We got two tribes
We got the bomb
We got the bomb, yeah
Sock it to me biscuits-now
Are we living in a land
Where sex and horror are the new Gods?
Yeah

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

Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) is a powerful and politically charged song by the British band Frankie Goes to Hollywood. Released in 1984, the song became a massive hit, reaching the number one spot on the UK Singles Chart and staying there for an impressive nine consecutive weeks. It is an electrifying fusion of synthpop, new wave, and dance music, featuring strong basslines, catchy melodies, and thought-provoking lyrics that delve into the themes of war, conflict, and nuclear proliferation.

About Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment)

The song was written in response to the Cold War tensions and the threat of nuclear warfare that plagued the world at the time. Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) served as a commentary on the escalating tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union, with the lyrics delving into the fears and anxieties of the general public during this tumultuous period.

One of the most notable aspects of Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) is its bold and provocative music video. Directed by renowned filmmaker Godley & Creme, the video presents a dystopian world where political leaders engage in a boxing match to settle their differences instead of resorting to armed conflict. It features striking imagery and symbolic representations of world leaders, adding to the overall impact of the song's message.

The song opens with a compelling spoken intro, performed by voiceover artist Patrick Allen, which sets the tone for the rest of the track. The intense and energetic instrumental arrangement kicks in, dominated by synthesizers, pounding drums, and driving basslines, creating a sense of urgency and tension that mirrors the global state of affairs during that time.

Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) features powerful and evocative lyrics that resonate with listeners. The verses vividly portray the destructive nature of war, urging people to question the senseless violence perpetuated by world leaders. Lead singer Holly Johnson's passionate and commanding vocal delivery adds to the emotional impact of the song, capturing the essence of the lyrics and conveying the urgency of the message.

The chorus of Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) is instantly recognizable and has become an anthem for peace and unity. It calls for people to come together, rejecting the destructive narrative of conflict and division. The repetition of the line "Two tribes go to war" emphasizes the futility of war and the need for humanity to rise above such destructive tendencies.

Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) became a social and cultural phenomenon upon its release. It resonated deeply with audiences around the world, capturing the spirit of the era and providing a powerful voice against the looming threat of nuclear warfare. The song's success also owed much to its catchy and infectious sound, which combined with its thought-provoking lyrics to create a truly memorable and impactful musical experience.

Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) remains an enduring song that continues to inspire and provoke thought, even decades after its release. Its timeless message of unity, peace, and the dangers of war still holds great relevance today, serving as a reminder of the importance of diplomacy and the need for global cooperation. Through its powerful music and lyrics, the song not only entertained but also challenged and encouraged listeners to question the status quo and strive for a better, more harmonious world.

In a crowded musical landscape, Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) stands out as a testament to the power of music to communicate important messages. Its impact and enduring popularity solidify Frankie Goes to Hollywood's place in musical history, and their ability to use their platform to provoke thought and inspire change.

In sum, Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment) is a captivating and influential song that encapsulates the spirit of its time. Its combination of potent lyrics, infectious melodies, and a thought-provoking music video makes it a compelling and memorable piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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