Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards
Billy Bragg
Lyrics currently unavailable…
10 facts about this song
Songwriter"Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards" was penned by Billy Bragg himself, an English singer-songwriter known for his blend of folk music and punk rock.
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Album AppearanceThe song is the final track on Billy Bragg's 1998 album "Worker's Playtime", which is often considered his most successful record.
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Political ToneThe song showcases Billy Bragg's political activism, containing lines that critique the politics, culture, and media landscape of Britain during that time.
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Song LengthUnlike many folk songs, "Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards" has a lengthy running time of nearly 8 minutes.
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Music StyleIn contrast to Bragg's earlier works, which often featured only his voice and guitar, this song introduces more complex instrumentation, including piano and horn sections.
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Song's TitleThe title "Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards" is a reference to China's Great Leap Forward movement from 1958-1962. The Great Leap Forward was an economic and social campaign led by the Communist Party of China, intended to transform the country from an agrarian economy into a socialist society.
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Lyrics InterpretationThe lyrics "So join the struggle while you may/ The Revolution is just a t-shirt away" was Bragg's sardonic commentary on how social change had been co-opted and commercialized in the late 1980s.
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Cover VersionsIt was covered by several artists, including Birdy and Peter, Paul and Mary. The song is often reinterpreted to fit the political climate of the time of the cover.
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Live PerformancesBilly Bragg often alters the lyrics during live performances to reflect current events, maintaining the song's relevance and reflecting his ongoing political activism.
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Music VideoThe music video for "Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards" was recorded at a live performance, showcasing Bragg's energetic style and ability to engage the audience.
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Citation
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"Waiting for the Great Leap Forwards Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 13 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/6654389/Billy+Bragg/Waiting+for+the+Great+Leap+Forwards>.
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