King for a Day
XTC
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Everyone's creeping up to the money god, Putting tongues where they didn't ought to be On stepping stones of human hearts and souls, Into the land of "nothing for free" Well the way that we're living, Is all take and no giving, There's nothing to believe in, The loudest mouth will hail the new found way, To be king for a day Everyone's licking up to the new king pin, Trying to get way up with a smile Sing for your supper boy and jump to a finger click, Ain't my way of living in style 'Cause the ladder gets longer, And ambition gets stronger, I can't satisfy the hunger, That bad old moon has got you in its sway, To be king for the day You're only here once so you got to get it right (No time to fuss and fight) 'Cause life don't mean much if measured out with someone else's plight (In time you'll see the light) 'Cause the way that we're living, Is all take and no giving, There's not mush to believe in, The loudest mouth will hail the new found way, To be king for a day You got to be the king for a day, ah To be king for a day
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: COLIN MOULDING
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
11 facts about this song
Genre Classification"King For A Day" is classified as an alternative rock or new wave song, showcasing XTC's mastery and versatility in different genres of music.
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Album ReleaseThe song was featured on the band's album "Oranges & Lemons," which was released in 1989.
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Song SuccessDespite its interesting instrumentals and catchy lyrics, "King For A Day" was not a major commercial success for the band. However, it has remained a favorite among many fans and critics.
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Song LyricsThe lyrics of the song are construed to be about the seductiveness of fame and power, and the fleeting nature of both.
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SongwriterThe song was written by Colin Moulding, the bass guitarist of XTC. This is noteworthy because most of XTC's songs were penned by the lead singer, Andy Partridge.
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Music VideoThe song's music video reflects its lyrical theme, depicting the band members on "kingly" thrones, dressed in royal attire.
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Live PerformancesInterestingly, unlike most bands who tend to perform their albums' singles at concerts, XTC has rarely performed "King For A Day" live.
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Pop Culture References"King For A Day" has been featured in the popular television show "The Simpsons." The song can be heard in the background of the episode "Monty Can't Buy Me Love."
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Cover VersionsA number of artists have covered "King For A Day," demonstrating its longevity and influence. Notably, Swedish band "The Soundtrack of Our Lives" recorded a version that was included on their 2009 compilation album, “Golden Greats No. 1”
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Song ProductionLike the rest of the album, "King For A Day" was recorded at the acclaimed Ocean Way Studio in Los Angeles. At the time, it was one of the band's most expensive recording experiences.
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Art InfluencesThe name of the album, "Oranges & Lemons," on which "King For A Day" appears, is taken from a nursery rhyme and reflects the playful, surreal, and at times, satirical nature of many of the band's songs, including this one.
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"King for a Day Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 13 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/4346433/XTC/King+for+a+Day>.
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