The song “Blinded By The Light” is a classic rock hit that has been covered by many artists, but what does the song actually mean? The lyrics can be quite cryptic, but we’ll break it down for you in this article.
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The song was originally written and performed by Bruce Springsteen in 1973, but it wasn’t until Manfred Mann’s Earth Band covered it in 1976 that it became a hit. The lyrics describe the experiences of a young man growing up in the suburbs in the 1960s and 70s.
The first verse talks about the protagonist driving around in his car with his friends, listening to music and feeling free. The second verse describes a girl that he is interested in, but he is too shy to talk to her. The chorus, “Blinded by the light, revved up like a deuce, another runner in the night,” is meant to be a metaphor for the excitement and confusion of youth.
The third verse talks about the protagonist’s experiences with drugs and the counterculture of the time. The fourth verse is a more abstract description of the protagonist’s internal struggles and his search for meaning in life.
The song is often interpreted as a coming-of-age story, with the protagonist struggling to find his place in the world. The “light” that blinds him could be a metaphor for the harsh realities of adulthood that he is not yet ready to face.
FAQ
What inspired Bruce Springsteen to write the song?
The lyrics are based on Springsteen’s own experiences growing up in Freehold, New Jersey, and the song is often seen as autobiographical.
What does “revved up like a deuce” mean?
The original lyrics were actually “revved up like a douche,” which is a slang term for someone who is acting crazy or out of control. Manfred Mann changed the lyrics to “deuce” to make it more radio-friendly.
Why did Manfred Mann’s Earth Band cover the song?
The band’s keyboardist, Manfred Mann, heard the song on the radio and thought it had great potential. He decided to cover it with his band, and it became one of their biggest hits.
Has the song been covered by other artists?
Yes, “Blinded By The Light” has been covered by several artists, including The Streets, Little Steven, and Tramps & Thieves.
What genre of music is the song?
The song is a mix of rock, folk, and pop, with some elements of funk and soul.
What is the meaning of the line “Madman drummers bummers”?
This line is often interpreted as a reference to the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life, and the idea that sometimes things just don’t make sense.
What is the significance of the line “Cut loose like a deuce, another runner in the night”?
This line is meant to be a metaphor for the feeling of being young and carefree, with the world at your feet. The “runner in the night” could represent the idea of chasing your dreams and taking risks.
What is the message of the song?
The song is about the struggles and joys of growing up, and the search for meaning in life. It encourages listeners to embrace their youth and take risks, even if they don’t always know where they’re going.
Pros
One of the pros of the song is its catchy melody and memorable lyrics. It has become a classic rock anthem that is still played on the radio today.
Another pro of the song is its nostalgic and relatable themes. Many people can identify with the experiences of the protagonist, and the song has become a symbol of the counterculture of the 60s and 70s.
Tips
If you’re a fan of “Blinded By The Light,” you might also enjoy other classic rock hits from the same era, such as “Born To Run” by Bruce Springsteen and “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.
You can also learn more about the history and context of the song by reading books or watching documentaries about the counterculture of the 60s and 70s.
Summary
“Blinded By The Light” is a classic rock hit that tells the story of a young man growing up in the suburbs in the 60s and 70s. The lyrics are meant to be a metaphor for the confusion and excitement of youth, and the search for meaning in life. The song has become a symbol of the counterculture of the time, and is still played on the radio today.
