History Lesson
Minutemen
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A hundred thousand years ago before legends were ever told Homo Sapien stood erect, mind empty and mind fresh. Created Love and Hate. Created God and Anti-God. Human slaughtered human slaughtered human slaughtered human. First with stone, then with metal, now with heat. It was all for power.
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Written by: VERNON REID
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
12 facts about this song
Band FormationThe song "History Lesson" is performed by the Minutemen, a unique American punk rock band that was formed in 1980 in San Pedro, California.
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Album Appearance"History Lesson" is featured in the album "Double Nickels on the Dime", which is the third album by Minutemen and was released in 1984.
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Song's Significance"History Lesson" is more than a song, it's considered the ethos of the band; other bands have even referred to the song as "punk rock's mission statement".
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Song CompositionThis song is short and fast like many other Minutemen songs, reflecting the band's defiant approach to conventional song structures.
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Narrative StructureThe lyrics of "History Lesson" recount the story of the band’s formation and their journey, establishing a narrative structure.
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Variant VersionsThere are two parts to "History Lesson," titled "History Lesson - Part I" and "History Lesson - Part II."
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Cinematic Appearance"History Lesson - Part II" was included in the 1987 skateboarding film "The Search for Animal Chin," making it a part of popular culture.
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Documentary Feature"History Lesson - Part II" was also the title used for a documentary about the band, reflecting its significance in their discography.
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LyricistThe lead vocalist, D. Boon, usually wrote Minutemen’s lyrics, including those for "History Lesson." His lyrics often combined personal experiences with political themes.
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Memorial ConsiderationThe song is considered by many as a poignant tribute to D. Boon, who passed away prematurely in 1985 and held a lasting influence on the punk rock scene.
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Music StyleWhile the Minutemen were known for their fusion style combining punk rock with jazz and funk, "History Lesson," particularly the second part, was characterized by its folky vibe, setting it apart.
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Role in American RockMinutemen, through songs like "History Lesson," played a significant role in the development of American alternative rock, influencing a range of bands that followed.
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Citation
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"History Lesson Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 25 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/962964/Minutemen/History+Lesson>.
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