Everything Is Broken
Bob Dylan
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Broken lines, broken strings, Broken threads, broken springs, Broken idols, broken heads, People sleeping in broken beds Ain't no use jiving Ain't no use joking Everything is broken Broken bottles, broken plates, Broken switches, broken gates, Broken dishes, broken parts, Streets are filled with broken hearts Broken words never meant to be spoken, Everything is broken Seem like every time you stop and turn around Something else just hit the ground Broken cutters, broken saws, Broken buckles, broken laws, Broken bodies, broken bones, Broken voices on broken phones Take a deep breath, feel like you're chokin', Everything is broken Every time you leave and go off someplace Things fall to pieces in my face Broken hands on broken ploughs, Broken treaties, broken vows, Broken pipes, broken tools, People bending broken rules Hound dog howling, bull frog croaking, Everything is broken
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Written by: Bob Dylan
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Artist Biography"Everything Is Broken" was originally written and performed by the American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. Bob Dylan, born Robert Allen Zimmerman, is considered one of the greatest and most influential figures in popular music, known for songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'".
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Album ReleaseThe song appeared on Dylan's 26th studio album, "Oh Mercy", which was released in September 1989. The album is characterized by its atmospheric sounds and introspective lyrical themes.
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Song CoverAmerican blues and rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd also covered "Everything Is Broken" in 1997. Shepherd has multiple Grammy nominations and his version of the song appeared on the album "Trouble Is..." which went Platinum in the United States.
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Production WorkBoth versions of the song were produced by influential music producers. Dylan's version was produced by Daniel Lanois, known for his work with U2 and Peter Gabriel, while Shepherd's version was produced by Jerry Harrison of the band Talking Heads.
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Song ThemeThe song portrays various societal issues, suggesting that "everything is broken". It is a haunting critique of the corrupt and failing system of the late 80th, a theme that remains prevalent in today's sociopolitical climate.
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Music VideoKenny Wayne Shepherd's version of "Everything Is Broken" has a music video which notably features the band performing amidst destruction and chaos, interpreting the song's theme visually.
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Chart PerformanceShepherd's cover of "Everything Is Broken" received considerable commercial success. It reached number 1 on the US Mainstream Rock chart in 1998.
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Songwriting Style"Everything is Broken" showcases Dylan's penchant for a combination of poetic and simple language to convey complex messages and emotions.
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Critical ReceptionWhile not considered one of Dylan's most iconic songs, "Everything Is Broken" has been well-received by critics, who praise its pessimistic yet compelling lyrical theme.
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Live PerformancesBoth Dylan and Shepherd have included "Everything Is Broken" in their live performance setlists, further indicating the song's enduring appeal.
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"Everything Is Broken Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 30 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/7079912/Bob+Dylan/Everything+Is+Broken>.
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