About the song
Won’t Get Fooled Again: A Timeless Rock Anthem
The Who’s iconic track, “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic embodiment of a generation’s disillusionment and a timeless rock anthem. Released in 1971 as part of their groundbreaking album Who’s Next, the song has since become a staple in rock music and a testament to the band’s enduring legacy.
Pete Townshend, the band’s primary songwriter, crafted a narrative that resonates with listeners across generations. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a society on the brink of chaos, filled with political unrest and social upheaval. The song’s title itself is a defiant proclamation, suggesting a weary but determined stance against the manipulation and deceit of authority figures.
Musically, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a tour de force. The song begins with a haunting synthesizer motif, gradually building in intensity until it culminates in a powerful, anthemic chorus. The combination of Townshend’s soaring vocals, Keith Moon’s thunderous drumming, John Entwistle’s driving bass lines, and the iconic synthesizer riff creates a sonic landscape that is both epic and intimate. The song’s structure is also noteworthy, with its extended instrumental sections and dynamic shifts that keep the listener engaged.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” has been praised for its innovative use of synthesizers, which were relatively new to rock music at the time. Townshend’s incorporation of this electronic element gave the song a futuristic feel, while also grounding it in the social and political concerns of the early 1970s. The song’s powerful message and innovative sound have made it a favorite among critics and fans alike.
Over the years, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in countless films and television shows. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes of disillusionment, rebellion, and hope. The song’s message continues to resonate with listeners today, as it serves as a reminder of the importance of questioning authority and standing up for what one believes in.
In conclusion, “Won’t Get Fooled Again” is a masterpiece of rock music that has stood the test of time. Its powerful lyrics, innovative sound, and timeless message have cemented its place in the pantheon of rock classics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of The Who or a newcomer to their music, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
We’ll be fighting in the streets
With our children at our feet
And the morals that they worship will be gone
And the men who spurred us on
Sit in judgement of all wrong
They decide and the shotgun sings the song
I’ll tip my hat to the new Constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I’ll get on my knees and pray
We don’t get fooled again
A change, it had to come
We knew it all along
We were liberated from the fold, that’s all
And the world looks just the same
And history ain’t changed
‘Cause the banners, they all flown in the last war
I’ll tip my hat to the new Constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I’ll get on my knees and pray
We don’t get fooled again, no, no
I’ll move myself and my family aside
If we happen to be left half-alive
I’ll get all my papers and smile at the sky
For I know that the hypnotized never lie
Do you?
Yeah
There’s nothing in the street
Looks any different to me
And the slogans are effaced, by-the-bye
And the parting on the left
Is now parting on the right
And the beards have all grown longer overnight
I’ll tip my hat to the new Constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I’ll get on my knees and pray
We don’t get fooled again
Don’t get fooled again, no, no
Yeah
Meet the new boss
Same as the old boss