Meaning of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears for Fears

This song by the English band Tears for Fears puts forth the idea that “everybody wants to rule the world.” However, this isn’t meant in a literal sense per se. It rather serves as an allusion to the global reality the artists dealt with when this track was written. 

Song was written during the Cold War era

It was during that time that the Cold War between the United States and Russia was at one of its peaks that this song was written. Thus many of the cryptic lyrics in it refer to that tense situation. However, what the track is about in general is the lust for power and control and the destructive consequences which manifest as a result. Thus it is also believed that “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” contains references to George Orwell’s classic book 1984. It is important to mention that 1984 is not only about war but also its fictional government’s all-encompassing desire to control the masses.

Trivia/Facts

• In fact this track originally featured the lyrics “everybody wants to go to war.” However, Tears for Fears weren’t feeling that phrase and modified it.
• This is one of the most-beloved songs from the 1980s. For instance, it received the highly-distinguished BRIT Award in 1986.
• Like many great songs throughout, history this one was a late and in fact final addiction to the album it is featured on. And what album is that? Tears for Fears’ Songs from the Big Chair. In fact Roland Orzabal, the co-founder of the band who originated the tune, more or less perceived it as a throwaway. However, he went on to continue writing it in conjunction with its producer, Chris Hughes and former Tears for Fears’ member Ian Stanley. And eventually in addition to coming out on the album on 25 February 1985, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” was also released as a single on 15 March 1985.
• As recently as April 2019, Tears for Fears performed “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” alongside Weezer at Coachella and with them again on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Appearances in Movies/TV Shows

And as far as television goes, it has been featured in the likes of Mr. Robot, Riverdale, The Dennis Miller Show, etc. It has been featured in countless media. For example, it was featured in the big-budget 2018 Steven Spielberg film titled Ready Player One.

How did “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” perform on the charts?

It topped the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 charts in America. Furthermore, it reached number 1 in both Canada and New Zealand. It also peaked at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and charted in a few other countries.

Are there any covers of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World”?

Yes, there are. As a matter of fact, this track is one of the most covered tracks of the 1980s. One of the most-recognized covers of this song was in 2013 via Lorde for the second The Hunger Games movie. In fact Tears for Fears loved it so much, they played this rendition during their own concerts.