McKenna Lyrics

Liam Cook

on Sunset Boulevard

The lyrics of Sunset Boulevard by James McKenna capture the pain and sorrow of a young celebrity who has been caught up in the vicious cycle of fame and success. The song is a reflection of the sharp and often painful contrast between criticism and acclaim in the public eye. The protagonist is pleading to be remembered and respected for who he is and not as a celebrity. The lyrics are laced with irony, mocking the superficiality of Hollywood and its obsession with youth and beauty. The singer conveys his frustration at being perceived as a product rather than an artist.

In the first stanza, the protagonist expresses his wish that his ashes be spread far and wide and not buried on Sunset Boulevard. He recognizes that Hollywood is not his true home, and he longs to be somewhere where the sun still shines. In the second stanza, he addresses his listeners, recognizing that he craves attention and is often the center of attention. Still, he wishes that people would listen to him and not just ignore him. The third and final stanza is an acknowledgment of his youth and the way he lives life to the fullest, partying and living on the edge. He recognizes that he is not invincible and that his youthful exuberance will eventually come to an end.