About the song
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears is a quintessential anthem of the 1980s, encapsulating the decade’s distinctive blend of synth-driven pop and introspective lyricism. Released in 1985 as part of their critically acclaimed album Songs from the Big Chair, this track not only defined the band’s career but also left an indelible mark on the music landscape of its era.
The song’s opening chords, with their instantly recognizable riff, evoke a sense of anticipation and nostalgia. As the melody unfolds, listeners are drawn into a lush soundscape characterized by the seamless integration of synthesizers, electric guitars, and a driving rhythm section. The production quality, polished yet emotionally resonant, highlights the meticulous craftsmanship behind the song.
Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, the masterminds behind Tears for Fears, infuse “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” with a lyrical depth that belies its catchy tune. The song explores themes of power, control, and the inherent chaos of human ambition. The title itself is a poignant reflection on the universal desire for dominance and the fleeting nature of such pursuits. Lines like “Help me make the most of freedom and of pleasure / Nothing ever lasts forever” echo the existential angst that resonates with many listeners, both young and old.
The chorus, with its anthemic quality, invites a communal sing-along, yet its message is subtly subversive. It’s a commentary on the cyclical and often destructive nature of power struggles. This duality—between the joyous, singable melody and the weighty subject matter—gives the song a timeless appeal. It speaks to the human condition in a way that is both relatable and profound.
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” also showcases the band’s ability to blend introspective lyrics with mainstream appeal. This balance helped the song achieve significant commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal themes and the skillful execution by Tears for Fears.
Moreover, the song’s cultural impact extends beyond its initial release. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, underscoring its lasting relevance. Covers and reinterpretations by various artists have introduced it to new generations, ensuring that its legacy endures.
In conclusion, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears is more than just a hit song from the 80s. It’s a masterful blend of melodic pop and thought-provoking commentary on human nature. Its success lies in its ability to connect with listeners on multiple levels, making it a true classic that continues to resonate across the decades. Whether you’re revisiting it after many years or discovering it for the first time, the song remains a powerful reminder of the complexities of ambition and the universal quest for significance.
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Lyrics
WELCOME TO YOUR LIFE
THERE´S NO TURNING BACK
EVEN WHILE WE SLEEP
WE WILL FIND YOU
ACTING ON YOUR BEST BEHAVIOUR
TURN YOUR BACK ON MOTHER NATUREEVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD
IT´S MY OWN DESIGN
IT´S MY OWN REMORSE
HELP ME TO DECIDE
HELP ME MAKE THE MOST OF
FREEDOM AND OF PLEASURE
NOTHING EVER LASTS FOREVEREVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD
THERE´S A ROOM WHERE THE LIGHT WON´T FIND YOU
HOLDING HANDS WHILE THE WALLS COME TUMBLING DOWN
WHEN THEY DO I´LL BE RIGHT BEHIND YOUSO GLAD WE´VE ALMOST MADE IT
SO SAD THEY HAD TO FADE ITEVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD
I CAN´T STAND THIS INDECISION
MARRIED WITH A LACK OF VISIONEVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE
SAY THAT YOU´LL NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER NEED IT
ONE HEADLINE WHY BELIEVE IT?EVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD
ALL FOR FREEDOM AND FOR PLEASURE
NOTHING EVER LASTS FOREVEREVERYBODY WANTS TO RULE THE WORLD