51st State

New Model Army

About 51st State

"51st State" is a single by New Model Army, which appeared on their 1986 album The Ghost of Cain. It protests about what it describes as "the obedience of the United Kingdom under Margaret Thatcher to United States interests". Its lyrics were written by Ashley Cartwright of The Shakes. The lyrics to the song were believed to be behind a ban by the American Musician's Union on the band, which prevented them touring the Ghost of Cain album in the United States. The track was released as a single, on EMI and reached 71 in the UK Singles Chart, spending just two weeks in the listing. It was the band's fourth appearance in that chart. 


Year:
2003
2:34
108 

Lyrics currently unavailable…


New Model Army

The New Model Army of England was formed in 1645 by the Parliamentarians in the English Civil War, and was disbanded in 1660 after the Restoration. It differed from other armies in the series of civil wars referred to as the Wars of the Three Kingdoms in that it was intended as an army liable for service anywhere in the country (including in Scotland and Ireland), rather than being tied to a single area or garrison. Its soldiers became full-time professionals, rather than part-time militia. To establish a professional officer corps, the army's leaders were prohibited from having seats in either the House of Lords or House of Commons. This was to encourage their separation from the political or religious factions among the Parliamentarians. more »

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10 facts about this song

Artist Origin
New Model Army is a British rock/post-punk band, originally from Bradford, England, which suggests that "51st State" is likely influenced by British perspectives.
Political Message
The song "51st State" openly criticizes the United States for its foreign policies. With strong political themes, the song sarcastically refers to Britain as the "51st State" of the US, hinting at a loss of sovereignty.
Album Context
"51st State" is a track from the band's third studio album "The Ghost of Cain," released in 1986.
Musical Style
Like many of New Model Army's songs, "51st State" blends elements of punk rock and post-punk with folk influences. This interesting mix contributes to the band's unique sound and appeal.
Popular Recognition
Though the band is not widely known in mainstream music, "51st State" is one of their most popular and widely-recognized songs due to its political message.
Songwriter
The unique thing about this song is that it's the only New Model Army single that was co-written by Ashley Cartwright of The Shakes. He came up with the song's chorus while the band provided the verses.
Chart Performance
"The 51st State" reached number 71 in the UK Singles Chart. Despite the relatively low chart position, the song remains a significant part of New Model Army's repertoire.
Controversy
The explicit political content of "51st State" has sparked some controversy. This, however, has not deterred the band from regularly including the song in their live performances.
Impact
Thanks to its strong message and catchy rhythm, "51st State" has become an anthem for some anti-globalization and left-wing movements.
Song Meaning
"51st State" is a reflection of the band's dissatisfaction with capitalist and imperialist ideologies. The lyrics comment on the increased Americanization of British culture during the 1980s.

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