Superman

The Kinks

About Superman

"(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman" is a song written by Ray Davies that was first released on the Kinks' 1979 album, Low Budget. The song, inspired by Superman: The Movie, employs a disco beat and lyrics that describe the singer's wish to be like the fictional character Superman. The song's disco style was created as a response to Arista Records founder Clive Davis's request for "a club-friendly record," despite Ray Davies' hatred of disco. The song was released as the lead single from Low Budget, becoming a moderate hit in North America. It has since appeared on numerous compilation and live albums. 


Year:
1980
359 
#1

 Struggling with Superman? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!

Woke up this morning, started to sneeze
I had a cigarette and a cup of tea
I looked in the mirror what did I see
A nine stone weakling with knobbly knees
I did my knees bend press ups touch my toes
I had another sneeze and I blew my nose
I looked in the mirror at my pigeon chest
I had to put on my clothes because it made me depressed
Surely there must be a way
For me to change the shape I'm in
Dissatisfied is what I am
I want to be a better man

Superman superman wish I could fly like superman
Superman superman I want to be like superman
I want to be like superman
Superman superman wish I could fly like superman

Woke up this morning, what did I see
A big black cloud hanging over me
I switched on the radio and nearly dropped dead
The news was so bad that I fell out of bed
There was a gas strike, oil strike, lorry strike, bread strike
Got to be a superman to survive
Gas bills, rent bills, tax bills, phone bills
I'm such a wreck but I'm staying alive

[look in the paper, what do I see,
Robbery, violence, insanity.]

Hey girl we've got to get out of this place
There's got to be something better than this
I need you, but I hate to see you this way
If I were superman then we'd fly away
I'd really like to change the world
And save it from the mess it's in
I'm too weak, I'm so thin
I'd like to fly but I can't even swim

Superman superman I want to fly like superman
Superman superman wish I could fly like superman
Superman superman wish I could fly like superman
Superman superman I want to be like superman
Superman superman I want to fly like superman

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The Kinks

The Kinks were an English rock band formed in Muswell Hill, North London, by brothers Ray and Dave Davies in 1964. Categorised in the United States as a British Invasion band, the Kinks are recognised as one of the most important and influential rock groups of the era. Their music was influenced by a wide range of genres, including rhythm and blues, British music hall, folk and country. Ray Davies (lead vocals, rhythm guitar) and Dave Davies (lead guitar, vocals) remained members throughout the group's 32-year run. Original members Pete Quaife (bass guitar, vocals) and Mick Avory (drums and percussion) were replaced by John Dalton in 1969 and Bob Henrit in 1984, respectively. Dalton was in turn replaced by Jim Rodford in 1978. Keyboardist Nicky Hopkins accomp… more »

8 fans

Written by: Raymond Douglas Davies, Serge Lama

Lyrics © SONY ATV MUSIC PUBLISHING, P.E.S.L (Productions et Editions Serge Lama)

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Superman" is a song written by The Kinks' lead vocalist, Ray Davies. It was included as part of the band's 1979 album, "Low Budget".
Genre Classification
The song falls under the genre of rock, specifically constituting elements of punk rock and new wave, reflecting the musical trends trending during the late 70s.
Album Success
The "Low Budget" album, which includes "Superman", was the band's highest-charting album in the United States, reaching as high as 11 on the Billboard Top LPs & Tape chart.
Concert History
"Superman" quickly became a concert favourite, often featuring in the band's live performances during the late 70s and early 80s.
Song’s Theme
"Superman" is largely a commentary on consumerism and the effects of urban life, employing the metaphor of Superman to signify the societal pressures to be invincible and ideal.
Popularity
Although not released as a single, "Superman" is considered to be one of the most popular tracks on the "Low Budget" album.
Emotional Impact
Ray Davies described the song and the album as a response to the economic strain felt by the general public during the late '70s, and it resonated with many listeners due to its relatable content.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised "Superman" for its potent lyrics and catchy melody, noting its satirical exploration of societal expectations and pressures.
Song Length
The songlength of "Superman" is considerably long, clocking in at nearly 6 minutes.
Signature Tune
The song's chord progression and melody are often cited as being characteristic of The Kinks' unique songwriting style.
Hit song
Despite not being released as a single, "Superman" attracted airplay on album rock stations, furthering The Kinks’ popularity during the late ‘70s.
Lyrics Inspiration
The lyrics from "Superman" were seen as an extension to the fictional concepts and the band's fascination with comic book characters that started from their earlier songs like "(Wish I Could Fly Like) Superman"".

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