“Going Underground” by The Jam
“Going Underground” serves as The Jam’s tirade against the British powers-that-be which presided over the UK at the time. But they are not only criticizing these entities for being more vested in war and confusion than peace and social progress. Rather the singer also has a bone to pick with the general public who has voted such individuals into power – and keep them there – in the first place. Or stated differently, they view their own countrymen as being apathetic in terms of the direction in which their government is taking them.
So in addition to coming off as being quite frustrated, The Jam are also seemingly adopting a disposition akin to mocking the people for getting what they deserve in terms of their unfavorable and uncaring rulers.
“Going Underground” Facts
The writing task was handled by Paul Weller only. The production tasks, on the other hand, was handled by Coppersmith-Heaven.
The Jam released this classic as a single in 1980. It wasn’t included in any of their studio albums.
On the 22nd of March, 1980, this single gave The Jam their first number 1 hit in their native United Kingdom. Atop the UK Singles Chart, it ruled for three weeks before being kicked out of that enviable spot by The Detroit Spinners’ “Working My Way Back To You“.
