Pretenders

Lyrics

6 ContributorsPack It Up LyricsYou guys are the pits of the world

Oh, woah, woah, woah
This is no place for me
Burnin' down the innerbelt
From jacuzzi to jacuzzi
It's all right for you, man
Gettin' smashed, gettin' suntanned
But I know my place
Where's my suitcase?

Pack it up or throw it away
What I can't carry, bury
Oh you'll remember me
And I'll remember you
But that was a long, long time ago
When I was passin' through

All my family
All my friends
My lovers
I got to find them
My enemies
My new family
My new friends
My future enemies
I got to flush 'em out
You might also likeSo pack it all up
Nothing goes in storage
I'm burnin' every bridge
Burn, baby, burn
I see your dog got shot
Well, hell, never mind
That's show biz, big boy
You've got to be cruel to be kind

Oh, woah, woah, woah
Give over and admit it
I've been tearing down the interstate
Like some kind of bleeding git
It's all right for the boss
His gain's my loss
That gets me down
It really gets me down

So pack it up, cut the crap
When the clock starts talkin', I'll start walkin'
And when you pass in your Porsche
Please don't offer me a ride
I may be a skunk
But you're a piece of junk
And furthermore
I don't like your trousers
And your appalling taste in women
And what about your mind?
And your insipid record collection
That dumb home video center
The usual pornography
That all you scum lap up
You're the pits of the worldEmbed

Get ready to pack up and dive into the satirical world of Pack It Up by the iconic band Pretenders. This song takes a bold stance against the commercial focus of the music industry, delivering a biting critique of music executives and their questionable taste. With lyrics that question the placement of advertisements on top of music, Pack It Up is a rebellious anthem that showcases the band's unique style and outspoken personality.

About Pack It Up

Released in 1981, Pack It Up is a track that challenges the status quo of the music industry. Led by the charismatic lead singer Chrissie Hynde, Pretenders use this song as a platform to voice their discontent with the commercialization of music. The lyrics are a sharp commentary on the superficiality and narrow-mindedness of music executives, who prioritize profit over artistic integrity.

The song opens with a faintly audible radio station commercial break, which cleverly sets the stage for the overall theme of the track. This radio clip, recorded from a CBS-affiliated radio station during March 11 to March 17 of 1981, serves as a backdrop to support the song's message. The location of the radio station remains uncertain, although the ads featured in the clip are for national brands, indicating a broader reach.

Throughout the song, the radio clip pops up at various moments, emphasizing the band's satirical jab at the industry. It is most audible at the beginning and end of the track, with a few other loud moments punctuating the middle. For those seeking a version where the background noise is more prominent, the "Radio Mix" outtake available on deluxe editions of the album removes Hynde's vocals and allows for a clearer exposure to the radio noise.

Pack It Up showcases Pretenders' signature sound, blending rock and punk elements with catchy melodies and powerful vocals. Hynde's distinctive voice cuts through the music, delivering the biting lyrics with a sense of urgency and conviction. The band's tight instrumentation and energetic performance add to the overall impact of the song, making it an unforgettable listening experience.

With its clever lyrics and thought-provoking themes, Pack It Up stands as a testament to Pretenders' songwriting prowess and their ability to use music as a platform for social commentary. The band's boldness in addressing the commercial aspects of the music industry adds depth and relevance to the song, making it as impactful today as it was when it was first released.

Pack It Up is a rallying cry for artists who refuse to compromise their artistic vision for commercial gain. It serves as a reminder that music should be about expression, authenticity, and pushing boundaries. Pretenders, with their fearless attitude and uncompromising approach, have left an indelible mark on the music industry with this powerful song.

So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in a rebellious anthem that challenges the norms of the music industry, give Pack It Up by Pretenders a listen. Get ready to join the chorus of voices demanding a return to the true essence of music, free from the influence of commercial interests. Pack It Up and let the music speak for itself!

• Release Date: August 15, 1981
• Artist: Pretenders