Public Image
John Lydon, Public Image Ltd.
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You never listen to a word that I said You only seen me For the clothes that I wear Or did the interest go so much deeper I must have been The colour of my hair Public image What you wanted was never made clear Behind the image was ignorance and fear You hide behind this public machine Still follow same old scheme Public image Two sides to every story Somebody had to stop me I'm not the same as when I began I will not be treated as property Public image Public image you got what you wanted Public image belongs to me It's my entrance My own creation My grand finale My goodbye
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Written by: JOHN WARDLE, KEITH LEVENE
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Band Formation"Public Image" is the debut single for the band Public Image Ltd. (PiL), which John Lydon (also known as Johnny Rotten from the Sex Pistols) founded after the Sex Pistols broke up in 1978.
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Lyrics and InfluencesThe song's lyrics were a direct response to Lydon's frustration with the media and the public's perception of him. This helps contribute to the song's raw and confrontational tone.
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Chart PerformanceDespite its significant divergence from the popular music trends at the time, "Public Image" peaked at No. 9 on the UK singles chart.
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Unique Cover ArtThe cover art of the single features an image of the band taken with a fish-eye lens. The distinctive visual concept was drawn from the idea of presenting the band as a 'public image', a play on the title.
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Iconic BasslineJah Wobble’s repetitive bassline in "Public Image" is often mentioned as one of the most innovative and memorable aspects of the song. His performance greatly contributes to the overall post-punk genre.
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Musical ImpactThe song had a significant impact on the post-punk and alternative rock scenes and has been covered by many acts since its original release.
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Influence on Video Production"Public Image" was accompanied by a music video, a relatively new medium at the time. Its success helped to reinforce the importance of visual media in promoting and enhancing music.
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Album ContributionInterestingly, "Public Image" is also the title track of Public Image Ltd.'s debut album, underlining its significance in the band's discography.
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RecognitionIn 2007, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its lasting impact on the music industry.
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Musical StyleWith its crashing drums, catchy bassline, and Lydon's snarling vocals, "Public Image" is often cited as a pioneering example of the post-punk genre. Despite being over 40 years old, it remains influential and groundbreaking.
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Citation
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"Public Image Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 14 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/35477029/John+Lydon/Public+Image>.
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