Dead End Street

The Kinks

About Dead End Street

"Dead End Street" is a song by the British band the Kinks from 1966, written by main songwriter Ray Davies. Like many other songs written by Davies, it is to some degree influenced by British Music Hall. It was originally released as a non-album single, but has since been included as one of several bonus tracks from the Face to Face CD. The song, like many others by the group, deals with the poverty and misery found in the lower classes of English society. The song was a big success in the UK, reaching #5 on the singles charts, but only reached #73 in the United States. In 1976 it ranked #72 on New Musical Express's list of the Top 100 Singles of All Time. Some labels list the song as "Deadend Street". 


Year:
1995
15 

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There's a crack up in the ceiling,
And the kitchen sink is leaking.
Out of work and got no money,
A Sunday joint of bread and honey.

What are we living for?
Two-roomed apartment on the second floor.
No money coming in,
The rent collector's knocking, trying to get in.

We are strictly second class,
We don't understand,
(Dead end!)
Why we should be on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
People are living on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
Gonna die on dead end street.

Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)

On a cold and frosty morning,
Wipe my eyes and stop me yawning.
And my feet are nearly frozen,
Boil the tea and put some toast on.

What are we living for?
Two-roomed apartment on the second floor.
No chance to emigrate,
I'm deep in debt and now it's much too late.

We both want to work so hard,
We can't get the chance,
(Dead end!)
People live on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
People are dying on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
Gonna die on dead end street.

Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)

(Dead end!)
People live on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
People are dying on dead end street.
(Dead end!)
Gonna die on dead end street.

Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
Head to my feet (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
How's it feel? (yeah)
How's it feel? (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah)
Dead end street (yeah

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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

Lyrics © Abkco Music Inc., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Details
"Dead End Street" was released by British rock band The Kinks in 1966.
Song's Inspiration
The song was written by "Ray Davies", the band's lead vocalist and main songwriter. The lyrics of the song reflect on his childhood experiences growing up in Fortis Green, London, which was a struggling post-war neighborhood.
Song's Theme
The song paints a vivid picture of poverty and the hardships of working-class life in Britain, effectively addressing socio-economic issues of that time.
Band Members
Along with Ray Davies, other band members who worked on this song include Dave Davies, Pete Quaife, and Mick Avory.
Music Video
“Dead End Street” is notable as The Kinks made an early music video for the song. This simple, but innovative act was pioneering at a time when music videos were not yet a standard part of popular music.
Song Performance
Despite its grim subject matter, the song's catchy tune and humorous lyrics made it a hit. It reached number 5 in the UK singles chart.
The Kinks' Reputation
Today, The Kinks are often hailed as one of the most important and influential bands of the British Invasion of the US in the 1960s. Songs like "Dead End Street" are a testament to their ability to blend pop music accessibility with poignant social commentary.
Storytelling
Ray Davies is often recognized for his ability to tell stories through his lyrics. "Dead End Street" is often cited as a prime example of his narrative style.
Reinterpretations
The song has been covered by a number of artists including The Jam and Less Than Jake.
Album Appearance
Despite its popularity, "Dead End Street" was not included in an official Kinks album during its initial release. However, it's been included in several compilation albums over the years.

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