About the song
“Radio Ga Ga” is a song by the British rock band Queen, released in 1984 on their album “The Works.” Written by the band’s drummer Roger Taylor, the song became one of Queen’s most iconic hits.
The lyrics of “Radio Ga Ga” reflect on the golden age of radio and express nostalgia for the time when radio was the dominant medium for music and entertainment. The song contrasts this with the rise of television and music videos, suggesting that the intimacy and magic of radio are being lost. The phrase “Radio Ga Ga” itself is a critique of the superficiality of modern media.
Musically, “Radio Ga Ga” features a distinctive synth-pop sound, with prominent use of synthesizers alongside traditional rock instruments. The song has a memorable, anthemic chorus, and Freddie Mercury’s powerful vocals add to its dramatic and nostalgic tone. The song also includes a signature clap-and-stomp rhythm that became a staple during live performances.
“Radio Ga Ga” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and charting well in various other countries. The song’s performance at Live Aid in 1985, where the audience famously clapped along to the rhythm, further cemented its place in rock history. “Radio Ga Ga” remains a beloved and enduring part of Queen’s extensive catalog.
Video
Lyric
(Radio)
(Radio)
[Verse 1]
I’d sit alone and watch your light
My only friend through teenage nights
And everything I had to know
I heard it on my radio
You gave them all those old-time stars
Through wars of worlds, invaded by Mars
You made ’em laugh, you made ’em cry
You made us feel like we could fly (radio)
So don’t become some background noise
A backdrop for the girls and boys
Who just don’t know, or just don’t care
And just complain when you’re not there
[Pre-Chorus]
You had your time, you had the power
You’ve yet to have your finest hour
Radio (radio)
[Chorus]
All we hear is radio ga ga
Radio goo goo
Radio ga ga
All we hear is radio ga ga
Radio blah, blah
Radio, what’s new?
Radio, someone still loves you
We watch the shows, we watch the stars
On videos for hours and hours
We hardly need to use our ears
How music changes through the years
Let’s hope you never leave, old friend
Like all good things, on you, we depend
So stick around ’cause we might miss you
When we grow tired of all this visual
[Pre-Chorus]
You had your time, you had the power
You’ve yet to have your finest hour
Radio (radio)
[Chorus]
All we hear is radio ga ga
Radio goo goo
Radio ga ga
All we hear is radio ga ga
Radio goo goo
Radio ga ga
All we hear is radio ga ga
Radio blah, blah
Radio, what’s new?
Radio, someone still loves you
[Bridge]
Radio ga ga (radio ga ga)
Radio ga ga (radio ga ga)
Radio ga ga (radio ga ga)
[Instrumental Break]
[Pre-Chorus]
You had your time, you had the power
You’ve yet to have your finest hour
Radio (radio)
[Instrumental Outro]