Why

Bronski Beat

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:
1993
4:02
49 
#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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Bronski Beat

Bronski Beat were a popular British synthpop trio who achieved success in the mid 1980s, particularly with the 1984 chart hit "Smalltown Boy". All members of the group were openly gay and their songs reflected this, often containing political commentary on gay-related issues. At the height of their popularity the band consisted of singer Jimmy Somerville backed by Steve Bronski and Larry Steinbachek, both of whom played keyboards and percussion. Somerville went on to have success as lead singer of The Communards and as a solo artist. more »

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Written by: CALVIN E. (GENE) TAYLOR

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Universal Music Publishing Group

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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    "Why Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 28 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/16944948/Bronski+Beat/Why>.

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