Massive Attack

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
This girl I know needs some shelter
But she don't believe anyone can help her
She's doing so much harm, doing so much damage
But you don't wanna get involved
You tell her she can manage
And you can't change the way she feels
But you could put your arms around her
I know you wanna live yourself
But could you forgive yourself
If you left her just the way you found her?

[Chorus]
I stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection
I stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection

[Verse 2]
You're a boy and I'm a girl
But you know you can lean on me
And I don't have no fear
I'll take on any man here
Who says that's not the way it should be?
[Chorus]
And I'll stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection
I'll stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection

[Verse 3]
She's a girl and you're a boy
But sometimes you look so small, you look so small
You got a baby of your own
And when your baby's grown, she'll be the one
To catch you when you fall

[Chorus]
And I'll stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection
I'll stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection

[Post-Chorus]
You're a girl and I'm a boy
You're a girl and I'm a boy, yeah
You're a girl and I'm a boy
You're a girl and I'm a boy, yeah
[Verse 4]
But sometimes you look so small, you need some shelter
You're just runnin' 'round and 'round, helter skelter
And I've leaned on you for years, now you can lean on me
And that's more than love, that's the way it should be
Now, I can't change the way you feel
But I could put my arms around you
That's just part of the deal, that's the way I feel
I'll put my arms around you

[Chorus]
I stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection
I stand in front of you
I'll take the force of the blow
Protection

[Post-Chorus]
You're a boy and I'm a girl
You're a boy and I'm a girl, yeah
You're a boy and I'm a girl
You're a boy and I'm a girl, yeah

Massive Attack's "Protection" is a standout track from their second album of the same name. It features the mesmerizing vocals of Tracey Thorn, known as the lead singer of the British duo Everything But the Girl. After the departure of Shara Nelson, their vocalist from the iconic album "Blue Lines," Massive Attack embarked on a search for a suitable replacement for their sophomore effort. Several singers were considered, including Aaron Neville, Siouxsie Sioux, and Sinéad O'Connor. In a stroke of fate, Tracey Thorn responded to their ad, drawn by her admiration for "Blue Lines" and her long-standing desire to collaborate with an electronic/dance act.

The collaboration between Massive Attack and Tracey Thorn was a match made in musical heaven. The band sent Thorn the backing track for what would become "Protection," and she added her soulful vocals and a melody that instantly captivated Massive Attack. The hi-hat/bass pattern and guitar "wah" on the track were sampled from James Brown's "The Payback." The songwriting process was a unique one, with Mushroom, a member of Massive Attack, programming the beat and adding keyboards in his home studio. Thorn's incredible songwriting prowess shone through, creating a seamless marriage between her evocative lyrics and the atmospheric production of Massive Attack.

A Musical Masterpiece

"Protection" is a testament to the magic that can be created when talented artists come together. The song opens with a hypnotic drum loop, courtesy of the sampled hi-hat and bass pattern from James Brown's "The Payback." This rhythmic foundation sets the stage for the soul-stirring journey that unfolds throughout the track.

Tracey Thorn's vocals are the heart and soul of "Protection." Her emotive delivery exudes a sense of vulnerability and strength simultaneously, perfectly complementing the intimate lyrics. Thorn's lyrics explore the complexities of human relationships and the need to find solace in the midst of chaos. The words resonate deeply, as she sings, "Love's a word, you gave it a name. Love is a verb, love is a doing word."

The instrumentation in "Protection" is a prime example of Massive Attack's distinctive sound. The melancholic guitar chords provide a haunting backdrop, while the subtle electronic elements add layers of depth and texture to the sonic landscape. The combination of electronic beats, soulful vocals, and atmospheric production creates an atmosphere that is simultaneously ethereal and grounded.

One of the standout features of "Protection" is the impeccable production. Massive Attack's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the song. The seamless fusion of organic and electronic elements creates a sonic palette that is both intricate and cohesive. The lush arrangements and carefully crafted soundscapes draw the listener in, immersing them in a world of raw emotions.

As the song progresses, it builds in intensity, with layers of instrumentation blending seamlessly with Thorn's soaring vocals. The chorus, with its cascading harmonies, serves as a climactic moment, a cathartic release of emotions. The song takes the listener on an emotional rollercoaster, navigating through the highs and lows of love and human connection.

Impact and Legacy

"Protection" remains a fan-favorite and a standout track in Massive Attack's discography. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless sound, thoughtful lyrics, and the undeniable chemistry between Massive Attack and Tracey Thorn. It served as a pivotal moment in the band's career, solidifying their position as pioneers of the trip-hop genre.

The influence of "Protection" can be felt in the music that followed. Its combination of electronic production, soulful vocals, and introspective lyrics became a blueprint for countless artists exploring similar sonic landscapes. The song's introspective themes of love, vulnerability, and self-reflection continue to resonate with listeners, making it a perennial favorite.

In essence, "Protection" is a masterpiece that showcases the artistic brilliance of both Massive Attack and Tracey Thorn. It encapsulates the essence of trip-hop, a genre that seamlessly blends electronic elements with soulful vocals and introspective lyrics. The song's delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, coupled with its atmospheric production and evocative storytelling, ensures its place as a timeless classic in the world of music.

• Release Date: September 26, 1994
• Artist: Massive Attack