Green Day

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
It started at the age of four
My mother went to the grocery store
Went sneakin' through her bedroom door
To find somethin' in a size four

[Pre-Chorus]
Sugar and spice and everything nice wasn't made for only girls
GI Joe in panty hose is makin' room for the one and only

[Chorus]
King for a day, princess by dawn
King for a day in a leather thong
King for a day, princess by dawn
Just wait 'til all the guys get a load of me

[Verse 2]
My daddy threw me in therapy
He thinks I'm not a real man
Who put the drag in the drag queen?
Don't knock it until you've tried it

[Pre-Chorus]
Sugar and spice and everything nice wasn't made for only girls
GI Joe in panty hose is makin' room for the one and only
[Chorus]
King for a day, princess by dawn
King for a day in a leather thong
King for a day, princess by dawn
Just wait 'til all the guys get a load of me

[Interlude]

[Pre-Chorus]
Sugar and spice and everything nice wasn't made for only girls
GI Joe in panty hose is makin' room for the one and only

[Chorus]
King for a day, princess by dawn
King for a day in a leather thong
King for a day, princess by dawn
King for a day in a leather thong
King for a day, princess by dawn
King for a day in a leather thong
King for a day, princess by dawn
Just wait 'til all the guys
Just wait 'til all the guys
Just wait 'til all the guys get a load of me

Green Day is a band that needs no introduction. Beloved by many for their punk rock sound and clever lyrics, their songs often touch upon themes of social injustice, rebellion, and self-expression. In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at one particular song that's especially relevant to the latter of those themes: "King for a Day."

About "King for a Day"

"King for a Day" is a song from Green Day's 1997 album "Nimrod." It tells the story of a cross-dresser who has been experimenting with his gender identity since he was a child. Throughout the song, the narrator sings about the boy's experiences growing up, from trying on his mother's clothes to being forced into therapy by his father. The song ultimately champions the right for anyone to express themselves in whatever way makes them happy, regardless of societal norms or expectations.

One of the most memorable lines in the song is, "Sugar and spice and everything nice wasn't made for only girls." This lyric highlights the fact that gender stereotypes are just that - stereotypes. Boys and men can enjoy things that are typically associated with femininity, just as girls and women can enjoy things that are typically associated with masculinity. This message of inclusivity and acceptance is one that resonates with many people who have felt excluded or judged for not conforming to traditional gender roles.

One interesting aspect of "King for a Day" musically is that it features a stronger ska influence than many of Green Day's other songs. This makes sense given that Gabrial McNair and Stephen Bradley of No Doubt (a band known for their ska sound) contributed their horn section to the track. The ska influence is evident in the upbeat tempo, brass instruments, and reggae-inspired guitar chords.

Overall, "King for a Day" is an empowering and affirming song that encourages listeners to be true to themselves, no matter what others may think. It's a reminder that gender - like many societal constructs - is largely a performance, and that we all have the power to choose how we present ourselves to the world. Whether you're a fan of punk rock, ska, or just great music in general, this song is definitely worth a listen.

• Release Date: October 10, 1997
• Artist: Green Day