Embarrassment
Madness
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Received a letter just the other day Don't seem they wanna know you no more They've laid it down given you their score Within the first two lines it bluntly read You're not to come and see us no more Keep away from our door Don't come 'round here no more What on earth did you do that for? Our aunt, she don't wanna know she says "What will the neighbors think, they'll think We don't, that's what they'll think, we don't" But I will, 'cause I know they think I don't Our uncle he don't wanna know he says "We are a disgrace to the human race", he says "How can you show your face When you're a disgrace to the human race?" No commitment, you're an embarrassment Yes, an embarrassment, a living endorsement The intention that you have booked Was an intention that was overlooked They say, "Stay away Don't want you home today Keep away from our door Don't come 'round here no more" Our dad, don't wanna know he says "This is a serious matter Too late to reconsider No one's gonna wanna know ya" Our mum, she don't wanna know, she says "I'm feelin' twice as old", she says "Thought she had a head on her shoulder 'Cause I'm feelin' twice as older I'm feelin' twice as older" You're an embarrassment
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2 fans
Written by: MICHAEL BARSON, LEE JAY THOMPSON
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Genre Classification"Embarrassment" is a song by Madness which falls into the genre of "2 Tone" and "ska" – styles that blend traditional reggae with elements of punk rock.
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Album InfoThis track is from the band's second studio album, "Absolutely," released in 1980.
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Chart Performance"Embarrassment" peaked at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart, solidifying Madness' status as one of the leading bands of the 2 Tone and ska movement in England at the time.
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Inspiration Behind the SongIt was reportedly inspired by the real-life experiences of the band's saxophonist, Lee Thompson. The song lyrics touch upon the theme of his sister's societal embarrassment due to an interracial relationship which resulted in an unborn child.
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Social ImpactGiven its subject matter, the song was a notable commentary on issues of racism and societal norms at the time. Its popularity helped bring these topics into public discussion.
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Songwriting CreditsLee Thompson and Mike Barson, the band's keyboardist, are credited with writing the song.
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Distinctive Elements"Embarrassment" features the distinct Madness sound, with prominent use of brass instruments, particularly saxophone, and a commonly frenetic, up-tempo rhythm common to ska and 2 Tone music.
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Unique Live PerformancesDuring live performances of the song, saxophonist Thompson often goes into the audience to perform his saxophone solo, creating a memorable moment.
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Re-releasesOver time, the track has been re-released on multiple Madness compilation albums.
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Interpretations of LyricsThe song's lyrics have been celebrated for their evocative portrayal of family dynamics and societal expectations, raising questions about how race and status impact personal relationships.
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Citation
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"Embarrassment Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 18 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/33801950/Madness/Embarrassment>.
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