Turn on the News - Hüsker Dü
"Turn on the News" is a track by the influential punk rock band Hüsker Dü, released on their 1984 album "Zen Arcade". The song is characterized by its fast-paced, energetic tempo and raw, aggressive vocals. Thematically, "Turn on the News" addresses the overwhelming barrage of negative news and information that bombards us daily. The lyrics reflect a sense of frustration and disillusionment with the media and the world at large, with lines like "Turn on the news, it looks like a movie / It makes me wanna cry, but I don't know why". The composition of the song is typical of Hüsker Dü's signature sound, with Bob Mould's blistering guitar riffs and Grant Hart's pounding drums driving the track forward. The urgency and intensity of the music perfectly complement the song's themes of chaos and confusion. One notable fact about "Turn on the News" is that it showcases the band's ability to blend melodic hooks with punk rock aggression, a skill that set them apart from many of their contemporaries. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Hüsker Dü's discography.
Hüsker Dü
Hüsker Dü was an American rock band formed in St. Paul, Minnesota in 1979. The band consisted of guitarist and vocalist Bob Mould, bassist Greg Norton, and drummer Grant Hart. Hüsker Dü quickly gained a reputation for their fast-paced and melodic punk rock sound, which combined elements of hardcore punk with pop sensibilities. The band released their debut album, "Land Speed Record," in 1982, which showcased their raw energy and fast-paced songs. They followed this up with a string of critically acclaimed albums, including "Zen Arcade" (1984) and "New Day Rising" (1985). These albums helped to establish Hüsker Dü as one of the leading bands in the American punk scene. Hüsker Dü's music was characterized by Mould's distinctive guitar playing, Norton's driving bass lines, and Hart's powerful drumming. The band's lyrics often dealt with themes of alienation, personal struggles, and social issues, giving their music a depth and emotional resonance that set them apart from many of their punk rock peers. Hüsker Dü's impact on music was significant, as they helped to bridge the gap between punk rock and alternative rock. Their fast-paced, melodic sound influenced a generation of bands in the 1980s and 1990s, including Nirvana, The Pixies, and Sonic Youth. Hüsker Dü's willingness to experiment with different musical styles and push the boundaries of punk rock helped to pave the way for the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s. Despite their critical acclaim and influence on music, Hüsker Dü disbanded in 1987 due to tensions within the band. However, their legacy continues to live on, as their music remains highly regarded by fans and critics alike. Hüsker Dü's innovative approach to punk rock and their willingness to push boundaries helped to redefine the genre and set the stage for the alternative rock revolution that would follow.