The Cramps

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Well I'm a human fly
I, I said F-L-Y
I say buzz buzz buzz
And it's just becuz
I'm a human fly
And I don't know why
I got 96 tears and 96 eyes

[Verse 2]
I got a garbage brain
That's driving me insane
And I don't like the ride
So push that pesticide
And baby I won't care
'Cuz baby I don't scare
'Cuz I'm a reborn maggot using germ warfare

Rock

[Verse 3]
I'm a human fly
I said F-L-Y
I say bzz bzz bzz
And it's just becuz
I'm an unzipped fly
And I don't know why
And I don't know why
But I say
[Chorus]
Bzzzzzzz
Rock tonight, and I say
Bzzzzzzz
Rocket ride, and I say
Bzzzzzzz
But I don't know why
Aw, I just don't know why

If you're looking for something a little different from the mainstream tunes of today, then look no further than The Cramps and their opening track of their first compilation album, "Human Fly." This unique psychobilly sound infused with B-movie motifs, sets the tone for the eclectic band of flotsam outsiders. From the anaglyph cover with 3-D glasses included, to the distinctive sound of grunge rock, "Human Fly" is a must-listen for music enthusiasts.

About Human Fly

The Cramps, an American punk rock band that emerged in the 1970s, released their first compilation album in 1980, titled "Songs the Lord Taught Us." One of the standout tracks from the album is undoubtedly "Human Fly." The song, written by the band's lead vocalist Lux Interior and lead guitarist Poison Ivy Rorschach, is a distinctive grunge rock anthem that has been described as one of the earliest and most influential examples of the psychobilly genre.

From the moment "Human Fly" begins, it's clear that this isn't your typical rock song. The opening chords of the guitar, played with a reverberating echo, set the eerie mood, while the lyrics describe a fly personified as a wandering, self-indulgent drifter. In many ways, the song encapsulates The Cramps' unique style, which borrowed heavily from underground rock 'n' roll, 1950s garage rock, and B-movie imagery, all wrapped up in a punk rock aesthetic.

What makes "Human Fly" stand out, even more, is the band's use of unusual instruments, such as the harmonica and theremin, to create a distinct and haunting sound. The driving bass line, thunderous drums, and gritty vocals add to the overall sense of urgency and desperation in the song. It's a perfect example of how The Cramps pushed the boundaries of traditional rock music, creating a sound that was both innovative and provocative.

Although "Human Fly" was never a huge commercial success, it has remained an enduring cult classic. Its influence can be heard in the work of countless grunge and punk rock bands that emerged in the decades that followed, cementing The Cramps' place as one of the most innovative and influential bands in rock history.

Rorschach herself once described "Human Fly" as "a kind of rock 'n' roll Tarzan," capturing the primal, instinctual energy that underpins the song. It's a track that demands attention from start to finish, and one that showcases just what made The Cramps such an enduring and influential force in the punk rock genre.

In short, "Human Fly" may be a quirky and unconventional song, but it's one that is absolutely worth listening to for anyone looking for something truly unique and groundbreaking in the world of rock 'n' roll.

• Release Date: 1978
• Artist: The Cramps