Why

Jimmy Somerville

About Why

"Why?" is a single by British synth-pop trio Bronski Beat and appeared on their 1984 album The Age of Consent. The song, recorded at RPM Studios, NYC and mixed at Townhouse Studio, London, pursued an energetic musical formula, while the lyrics focused more centrally on anti-gay prejudice. The song opens with a questioning vocal by frontman and vocalist Jimmy Somerville and the shattering of breaking glass. It was the trio's second Top 10 success in the UK, throughout Europe and in Australia and is today considered a popular gay anthem.  


Year:
2003
36 
#1

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Contempt in your eyes
As I turn to kiss his lips
Broken I lie
All my feelings denied
Blood on your fist

Can you tell me why?

You in your false securities
Tear up my life
Condemning me
Name me an illness
Call me a sin
Never feel guilty
Never give in

Tell me why?

You and me together
Fighting for our love

Can you tell me why?

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Jimmy Somerville

James William Somerville (born 22 June 1961) is a Scottish pop singer and songwriter. He had considerable success in the 1980s with the pop groups Bronski Beat and The Communards, and has also had a successful solo career. He is known in particular for his falsetto singing voice. more »

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Written by: MICHAEL MORE, SAMANTHA JOYCE COLE

Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


8 facts about this song

Diversity Representation
"Why" was one of the many Bronski Beat songs that emphasized the struggles of the LGBTQ+ community. The band had three openly gay members, including Jimmy Somerville, and used their platform to promote gay rights.
Chart Success
The song, released in 1984, became a big hit in the UK and peaked at number 6 on the UK Singles Chart.
Album Feature
"Why" was featured on Bronski Beat's debut album "The Age of Consent." This album itself was peppered with pointed social commentary, especially on the issues faced by homosexual people.
Famed Vocalist
Jimmy Somerville's distinctive falsetto voice was a major reason for the band's unique sound and popularity. His voice heavily featured in "Why."
Song Message
The track "Why" focuses on the struggles of being openly gay during a time of rampant homophobia and discrimination. It's seen as an anthem that poses a question to society, asking why gay people were being treated differently or lesser.
Content Visualization
The music video for "Why" features scenes of anti-gay violence and assertive responses to it. Making the political character of the song vividly clear.
Artist Departure
Despite the success of "Why" and other Bronski Beat songs, Jimmy Somerville left the band in 1985, a year after the release of "Why", to form the duo "The Communards" with Richard Coles.
Cover Versions
In recognition of its enduring appeal, "Why" has been subsequently covered by other artists, reflecting its lasting impact in the music industry.

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