Remedy by Black Crowes Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Intricate Tapestry of Rebellion and Healing
Lyrics
Who killed that bird out on you window sill?
Are you the reason that he broke his back?
Did I see you laugh about that?
If I come on like a dream?
Will you let me show you what I mean?
Will you let me come on inside?
Will you let it glide?
Can I have some remedy?
Remedy for me please
Cause if I had some remedy
I’d take enough to please me
Baby, baby why did you dye your hair?
Why you always keeping with your mother’s dare?
Baby why’s who’s who, who know you too?
Did the other children scold on you?
If I come on like a dream?
Would you let me show you what I mean?
If you let me come on inside?
Will you let it slide?
The Black Crowes, with their Southern rock swagger and unapologetic blues influences, created a resonant anthem with the song ‘Remedy’. Released in 1992 as part of their sophomore album, ‘The Southern Harmony and Musical Companion’, ‘Remedy’ quickly climbed the charts, captivating fans with its raw energy and interesting lyrical narrative.
At first glance, the track may seem like a straightforward rock number, but delving into its lyrics reveals layers of meaning. Its blend of rebellious spirit and a yearning for relief resonate with listeners in a deeply personal way, marking it as a standout in the band’s impressive catalogue.
The Call for Salvation In A Turbulent World
The repeating plea for some ‘remedy’ serves as a powerful outcry in a world filled with unrest and disarray. This chorus forms the backbone of the song, embodying both a demand for change and a personal quest for healing. The raw vocal delivery underscores a sense of urgency that propels the track forward, ensuring it retains its edge even decades after its release.
What constitutes this remedy remains tantalizingly vague, inviting a torrent of interpretations. Is it love, freedom, escapism, or perhaps an end to personal or collective suffering? The beauty lies in the malleability of the term, making the song universally appealing while remaining intimately personal.
A Subtle Critique on Societal Norms
When questioned about the peculiar death of a bird, or the decision to dye one’s hair, the lyrics don’t provide direct answers. Instead, they seem to be probing the reasons behind our actions, and whether we are influenced by society’s expectations or our genuine desires. The Black Crowes don’t just sing; they question and challenge.
The mention of mother’s dare and the other children’s scolding evokes a sense of societal pressure and the struggle to conform, adding a layer of cultural commentary to what could otherwise be dismissed as purely a rock n’ roll escapade.
Inviting Introspection Through Dream-Like Imagery
The repeated lines, ‘If I come on like a dream?’, suggest an alternate reality or a heightened state of consciousness that the singer wants to share. The song invites the listener to entertain the possibilities beyond their current perception, hinting at a deeper understanding or experience that lies just beneath the surface.
This enigmatic dream state challenges the listener to step away from their preconceived notions and to open up to what could be a transformative experience. The language is seductive and immersive, drawing us into the song’s rich world of introspection and exploration.
The Song’s Hidden Meaning: An Antidote to Indifference
The enigmatic essence of ‘Remedy’ might very well be a reflection on empathy and the human condition’s complexities. The bird’s untimely demise on the window sill could signify a loss of innocence or the harsh consequences of indifference. In this context, the remedy the protagonist seeks is not just for personal malaise, but also for a society that sometimes overlooks the small tragedies that unfold daily.
As the song progresses, the seemingly unrelated depictions coalesce into a sophisticated commentary on the importance of caring—for ourselves and for the broader world around us. The remedy is then seen as more than a fix; it’s a transformative state of awareness and compassion.
Memorable Lines That Echo Across Time
‘Can I have some remedy?/Remedy for me please’—these lines have been etched into the consciousness of a generation. Their simplicity belies a depth of emotion and an acknowledgment of need that is universally understood. They question, they ache, and they assert, all within the same breath.
The direct appeal is straightforward in its structure but profound in its depth. It echoes an emotional resonance that has found a home in the collective memory of fans. An articulate cry for understanding, the song captures a sentiment that remains as poignant and potent now as it was at the time of its release.
