Pulp

Lyrics

23 ContributorsThis Is Hardcore LyricsYou are hardcore, you make me hard
You name the drama and I'll play the part
It seems I saw you in some teenage wet dream
I like your get up if you know what I mean

I want it bad
I want it now
Oh, can't you see
I'm ready now?

I've seen all the pictures, I studied them forever
I wanna make a movie so let's star in it together, oh oh
Don't make a move 'til I say, "Action."

Oh, here comes the hardcore life

Put your money where your mouth is tonight
Leave your make-up on and I'll leave on the light
Come over here, babe, and talk in the mic
Oh yeah, I hear you now, it's gonna be one hell of a night

You can't be a spectator, oh no
You gotta take these dreams and make them whole

Oh, this is hardcore
There is no way back for you
Oh, this is hardcore
This is me on top of you
And I can't believe that it took me this long
(That it took me this long)
See Pulp LiveGet tickets as low as $68You might also likeOh, this
Is the eye of the storm
It's what men in stained raincoats pay for
But in here it is pure, yeah
This
Is the end of the line
I've seen the storyline
Played out so many times before

Oh, that goes in there
Then that goes in there
And that goes in there
And that goes in there, ooh
And then it's over
Oh, what a hell of a show
But what I want to know:
What exactly do you do for an encore, yeah?
'Cause this is hardcore

If you're a fan of Pulp, you're probably familiar with their catchy disco pop tunes like "Common People" and "Disco 2000." But nestled within their discography lies a hidden gem that takes a completely different turn. I'm talking about their epic song, "This Is Hardcore," released in 1998 as the title track of their album of the same name. This song veers away from the upbeat tempo and cheerful melodies we associate with the band, instead inviting us into a slower, darker, and moodier sonic landscape.

At its core, "This Is Hardcore" serves as the centerpiece of Jarvis Cocker's memoirs on his journey of fame and self-reflection. It's an introspective exploration that dares to compare the life of a successful musician to that of a porn star. It's a bold analogy that raises questions about the nature of fame, its pitfalls, and its impact on one's identity.

This song captures the essence of the 90s, a decade characterized by its grungy, introspective, and often emotionally charged music. "This Is Hardcore" embodies all of these qualities, making it one of the most powerful and resonant songs of its time.

About This Is Hardcore

"This Is Hardcore" is an ambitiously crafted song that showcases Pulp's evolution as a band and Jarvis Cocker's prowess as a songwriter. Released as the lead single and title track of their 1998 album, it is a standout piece that immediately grabs your attention and takes you on an atmospheric journey.

The song ditches the band's signature disco-infused sound and embraces a slower tempo, rich with haunting instrumentation. The use of strings adds depth and drama, creating a melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements Cocker's introspective lyrics.

What sets "This Is Hardcore" apart from the rest of Pulp's discography is its lyrical depth and its ability to provoke thought and introspection. Cocker explores themes of fame, existential crisis, and the emptiness that can accompany success. The comparison between being a successful musician and a porn star may seem unconventional, but it provides a stark and thought-provoking metaphor for the turbulent and often exploitative nature of fame.

Cocker's sharp, witty, and often self-deprecating lyrics add layers to the song. Lines like "You are hardcore, you make me hard" and "You can tell me all about your trip to mecca, baby" showcase his ability to craft vivid imagery and paint a picture that keeps the listener engaged throughout.

As the centerpiece of the album, "This Is Hardcore" sets the tone for the rest of the record. It invites listeners into Cocker's deeply personal world, allowing us to experience the highs and lows of his life and the emotional weight that comes with fame.

Beyond its lyrical and musical brilliance, "This Is Hardcore" is a sonic journey that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions. The song builds gradually, starting with a subtle piano melody and Cocker's haunting vocals, creating an intimate and introspective atmosphere. But as it progresses, it swells into a grandiose crescendo, with the addition of strings and a powerful orchestral arrangement. The climax of the song hits you with an almost overwhelming intensity, leaving a lasting impact that lingers even after the music fades.

Pulp's "This Is Hardcore" has left an indelible mark on music history with its boldness, introspection, and musicality. It encapsulates the spirit of the 90s while pushing the boundaries of what a pop song can be. Whether you're a longtime fan of Pulp or discovering them for the first time, "This Is Hardcore" is a song that demands your attention and invites you to delve deeper into its layers of complexity and emotion.

So, sit back, put on your headphones, and let Pulp take you on an unforgettable journey with "This Is Hardcore." It's a song that continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece in the annals of music history.

• Release Date: March 9, 1998
• Artist: Pulp