Massive Attack

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Elizabeth Fraser]
You're not my eater
I'm not your food

[Chorus: Elizabeth Fraser]
Love you for God
Love you for the Mother

[Verse 2: Elizabeth Fraser]
Eat me in the space
Within my heart

[Chorus: Elizabeth Fraser]
Love you for God
I love you for the Mother

[Verse 3: Elizabeth Fraser]
Mother fountain
Or live or not at all

[Verse 4: Elizabeth Fraser]
The most level
Sunken chapel

[Chorus: Elizabeth Fraser]
Love you for God
Oh, love you for the Mother
[Verse 5: Elizabeth Fraser]
All's there to love
Only love

Massive Attack's "Black Milk" is a hauntingly beautiful track that captivates listeners with its ethereal soundscapes and mesmerizing vocals. Released as part of their critically acclaimed album "Mezzanine," this song showcases the unique blend of trip-hop and alternative rock that the band is renowned for. With its atmospheric production, mesmerizing lyrics, and the remarkable vocal performance of Elizabeth Fraser, "Black Milk" takes listeners on an immersive sonic journey that leaves a lasting impression.

About Black Milk

"Black Milk" was conceived during the recording sessions for "Mezzanine" in 1997. It was primarily the creation of Daddy G, with contributions from Mushroom and production overseen by Neil Davidge. Interestingly, 3D, another member of Massive Attack, had little involvement in the development of this particular track as he was busy working on his own songs for "Mezzanine" in a separate recording studio in Bristol.

During the creation of "Black Milk," Daddy G incorporated a sample from an old track called "Tribute" by Manfred Mann's Earth Band. Unfortunately, the sample was used without obtaining proper clearance, leading to legal complications for Massive Attack. The Manfred Mann sample was a clear "rip-off" of the original song, with 120 bars out of 128 being sampled directly, including the drum pattern, hi-hat, and bass-line. Daddy G and Neil Davidge convinced 3D that the sample would go unnoticed, but a vigilant German fan of Manfred Mann's alerted him to the unauthorized use of his song in Massive Attack's work.

This revelation resulted in Manfred Mann seeking damages of £100,000 from Massive Attack and attempting to secure an injunction to halt the sales of "Mezzanine." Thankfully, both parties were able to reach an amicable settlement out of court, although the details of the settlement were never made public. The experience with sample clearance issues and copyright infringement played a significant role in shaping Massive Attack's future approach to sampling on their subsequent album, "100th Window."

Despite the legal hurdles faced by "Black Milk," the song remains a standout piece in Massive Attack's discography. Elizabeth Fraser's hauntingly beautiful vocals elevate the track to new heights, adding an emotive layer that resonates with listeners long after the song ends. The atmospheric production creates a mesmerizing soundscape, blending trip-hop beats with intricate instrumentation.

The lyrics of "Black Milk" further contribute to the song's enigmatic allure. While the meaning may be open to interpretation, the evocative imagery and poetic storytelling create a captivating narrative. Elizabeth Fraser's ability to convey raw emotions through her delicate yet powerful vocal delivery adds an additional layer of depth and intensity to the lyrics.

"Black Milk" showcases Massive Attack's mastery in creating a unique sonic experience that transcends genre boundaries. The song's ability to seamlessly blend elements of trip-hop, alternative rock, and ambient music is a testament to the band's innovative approach to music production. The fusion of electronic beats, atmospheric textures, and mesmerizing vocals creates an otherworldly atmosphere that engulfs listeners from the very first note.

As with many of Massive Attack's songs, "Black Milk" invites listeners to dive into a world of introspection and reflection. It provokes contemplation on the interplay between light and darkness, exploring themes of emotional turmoil, longing, and redemption. The deeply introspective nature of the lyrics, combined with the mesmerizing soundscapes, creates an immersive experience that resonates on a profound level.

In the end, "Black Milk" stands as a testament to Massive Attack's artistic vision and their ability to create timeless music that defies categorization. It represents a pivotal moment in the band's journey, marked by both artistic and legal challenges. Yet, despite the obstacles faced, "Black Milk" remains a testament to the enduring impact of their unique sound and serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and touch the depths of our souls.

• Release Date: April 20, 1998
• Artist: Massive Attack