.

Song Stories

“How Soon Is Now? ”

The Smiths | 1985

Morrissey cribbed the opening lyrics of this track from George Eliot’s novel Middlemarch, but co-composer Johnny Marr has cited a different yet equally unlikely reference point for the music: Derek and the Dominos. “I wanted an intro that was almost as potent as 'Layla,'” the guitarist said. “When [it] plays in a club or a pub, everyone knows what it is.”

Find out which legendary female singer-songwriter Morrissey criticizes in person for eating meat and smoking.
prev
Song Stories Main Next

blog comments powered by Disqus

Song Stories

“Youth Knows No Pain”

Lykke Li | 2011

“Like on 'Youth Knows No Pain' — we are the ones that should demonstrate, because we can take it,” Likke Li said. “We can pierce ourselves, take Ecstasy, dance all night and still go to work at our McDonald's jobs.” Despite the hedonistic sentiment in the song, the Swedish singer also admitted in hindsight her youth had repercussions. “I remember when I was 18-19 and feeling that I know it all,” Li said. “I always feel that I know it all. But that song is about realizing you don’t, and reflecting, ‘Boy, if I only knew what would follow.’”

More Song Stories entries »