What for

James

About What for

"What For" is a single by Mancunian band James, released in 1988 by Sire Records, the first after an enforced eighteen-month hiatus and also the first release featuring material off their forthcoming album Strip-mine. Both the title track and one of the two additional tracks, "Not There" were included on Strip-mine, while the other track, "Island Swing" remains otherwise unreleased. "What For" was also included on the compilation Just Say Yo and reached the 33rd spot on John Peel's Festive Fifty of 1988.  


Year:
1988
4:31
114 
#2

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Today, I won`t think of any sad things
Will not think of torture, or the rape of nature 
Just today, I won`t touch those sickening papers
Will just let myself get swept away by this beautiful day

What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for
What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for

The sunset tonight is beyond all words, in the sky above the square
The starling spiral dancing on air. 

What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for
What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for

I will pass through the glass into air past those birds 
In the square, I am sun, I am sky in my mind`s eye

Today, I will dive into foaming seas
Sick fish, myself, and some strange debris.
I would prefer to be anywhere away from here
Oh I would prefer to be anywhere away from here
I would prefer to be anywhere away from here 
I would prefer to be anywhere away from here

What for, tell oh me tell oh me, what for
What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for

I will pass through the glass into air past those birds
In the square I am sun I am sky

What for, tell oh me tell oh me, what for
What for, tell oh me, tell oh me, what for

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James

James is a British rock band from Manchester, England. They formed in 1982 and were active throughout the 1980s, but most successful during the 1990s. Their hit singles include "Come Home", "Sit Down", and "She's a Star" as well as their American college radio hit "Laid". Following the departure of lead singer Tim Booth in 2001, the band became inactive but re-formed in January 2007, returning for a new album and international tour. Up to 2010, the band had sold more than 25 million albums worldwide. more »

1 fan

Written by: TIMOTHY BOOTH, JAMES GLENNIE, LAWRENCE GOTT, GAVIN WHELAN

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Songwriter Origin
"What For", a popular song was written by the English rock band, James.
Album Inclusion
This song is included in the band's fourth studio album "Seven", which was released in February 1992.
Chart Performance
"What For" earned notable success in the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number 38.
Music Styles
The song showcases the band's unique blend of alternative rock, indie pop, and folk-pop.
Song Lyrics
The lyrics depict a powerful message about the societal pressures people face and the consequences of conforming to these demands.
Band Members
"What For" features the vocal prowess of lead singer Tim Booth partnered with the musicianship of Larry Gott (guitar), Jim Glennie (bass), and David Baynton-Power (drums).
Other Notable Songs
While "What For" is one of the most popular tracks by James, the band is also known for other hits like "Sit Down" and "Laid".
Song Duration
The official duration of "What For" is approximately 4 minutes and 9 seconds.
Producer
The track was produced by renowned music producer Youth, known for his work with bands like The Verve and U2.
Music Video
"What For" also has a music video release that matches the overall vibe and ethos of the song.

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