The Smashing Pumpkins

Lyrics

[Instrumental Intro]

[Verse 1]
She didn't wanna be, she didn't wanna know
She couldn't run away 'cause she was crazy
She gave it all away, she saw her baby break
And in the air it hung that she was dull razors

[Chorus 1]
And I said, "I wanna fill you up
I wanna break you, I wanna give you up
From one another, another one should come
To one another, no one should come between us"

[Verse 2]
Still, I was lonely, and she was by my side
My one and only knows that she could never hide
I couldn't feel her, and it was just a game
'Cause I was lonely and she was crazy

[Chorus 2]
Rat-tat-tat! Ka boom boom!
Now take that, and just a bit of this
'Cause I'm a watcher, and I'm a doer of none
Come to save you, 'cause you're all mine
[Bridge 1]
I hurt where I can't feel
I feel where I can't hurt
I know where I can't know
I bleed for me and mine

[Chorus 3]
Ka-boom! Oh!
A rat-tat-tat, and some good ole bliss
'Cause I'm a sister, and I'm a motherfuck

[Bridge 2]
I am made of shamrocks
I am made of stern stuff
I am never enough
I am the forgotten child

[Chorus 1]
And I said, "I wanna fill you up
I wanna break you, I wanna give you up
From one another, no one should ever come
In between us, between us and our love"

[Breakdown]
Mary had a little lamb, her face was white as snow
And everywhere that Mary went I was sure to go
Now Mary's got a problem, and Mary's not a stupid girl
Mary's got some deep shit, and Mary does not forget, and
And this is how Mary's garden grows
And this is how Mary has her ghosts
[Break]
And in the eyes of the jackal I say ka-boom!

[Verse 3]
Now we begin descend to where we've never been
There is no going back, this wasn't meant to last
This is a hell on earth, we are meant to serve
And she will never learn, she will never learn

[Outro]
Bye-bye, baby goodbye, bye-bye

[Guitar Solo]

When it comes to The Smashing Pumpkins, their song "X.Y.U." is an absolute monster. The track is a heavy, relentless force that is best experienced live, where it truly comes alive and captivates audiences. It's no wonder that it has become a fan favorite at concerts, having been performed almost 300 times since its release. This song is often saved for the encore, leaving concert-goers craving more of its electrifying energy.

From the moment "X.Y.U." kicks in, it imposes its screeching noise-rock textures and brutal metallic riffing upon the listener. The sheer power and intensity of the music immediately grab your attention, refusing to let go. It may be repetitive in nature, but this repetition only serves to drive the song forward, constantly evolving and escalating to dizzying heights. Just when you think the sonic assault may subside, the tempo suddenly changes, propelling the song into a whole new dimension.

The impact of "X.Y.U." is not limited to its sonic qualities alone. James Iha, who dedicated a significant amount of time recording this song, found it to be disturbing. In his own words, he described it as "the monster inside of the band trying to get out." This sentiment is reflected in the raw and unrelenting nature of the music, which creates an atmosphere of darkness and unease.

But what about the title itself? Why is it called "X.Y.U."? In the narrator's twisted world, the song suggests that the alphabet doesn't end with 'Z', but rather concludes with 'YOU'. It's a clever play on words that adds an extra layer of complexity and meaning to the song.

About X.Y.U.

"X.Y.U." by The Smashing Pumpkins is an intense and powerful track that showcases the band's ability to create music that lingers in the depths of your soul. Released in 1995 as part of their critically acclaimed double-album "Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness," the song has since become a standout favorite among fans and a staple in their live performances.

The song's musical composition is undeniably heavy, pushing the boundaries of alternative rock and embracing a more aggressive and ferocious sound. Its screeching noise-rock textures and brutal metallic riffing set the stage for an auditory assault that demands your full attention from start to finish. The band's innovative use of dynamic shifts adds a level of complexity and unpredictability that keeps the listener on their toes.

One of the defining moments of "X.Y.U." occurs when Billy Corgan, the frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, unleashes a piercing scream and passionately declares, "Into the eyes of the Jackal, I say, 'KA-BOOM!'" This climactic moment adds a burst of energy to the song, propelling it into an even more intense sonic journey.

With its dark and cryptic lyrics, "X.Y.U." delves into themes of inner turmoil and the struggles of the human condition. The song's title, as explained by its creators, represents the twisted perspective of the narrator, where the alphabet doesn't end with 'Z' but instead with 'YOU'. This subtle wordplay emphasizes the idea that the ultimate culmination of all experiences and emotions revolves around the individual, making the song's impact deeply personal.

James Iha, the guitarist of The Smashing Pumpkins, has noted that "X.Y.U." is a particularly disturbing song. This sentiment is echoed in the relentless and uncompromising nature of the music. The band pours their emotions and frustrations into every note, creating an atmosphere of unease and dissonance that resonates with listeners.

Throughout their career, The Smashing Pumpkins have established themselves as musical pioneers who are unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. "X.Y.U." stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to their craft. Its complex and perplexing nature draws listeners in, inviting them to experience the intensity and power that encapsulates the band's unique sound.

Whether you listen to "X.Y.U." in the comfort of your own home or witness its live performance, be prepared for a musical journey that is equal parts perplexing and exhilarating. The Smashing Pumpkins' ability to captivate audiences with their raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics is unparalleled, and "X.Y.U." is a shining example of their innovative artistry.

So, buckle up and let yourself be immersed in the sonic storm that is "X.Y.U." – a song that pushes boundaries, challenges expectations, and leaves an indelible mark on your musical psyche.

• Release Date: October 23, 1995
• Artist: The Smashing Pumpkins