The group formed in 1981 as a trio consisting of Brad Merritt (bass), Ian Franey(drums), and Neil Osborne (vocals). In 1983, Phil Comparelli was added on guitar and vocals, and Franey was replaced by Darryl Neudorf. Matt Johnson replaced Neudorf on drums by 1986. The band announced in March of 2005 that Comparelli had officially passed on guitar duties to Dave Genn, formerly of Matthew Good Band.
The band's self-titled second album, released in 1986, began to attract attention from radio and record buyers across Canada, with the single "Baby Ran" gaining significant radio airplay. The band's third album, Show Me, became their commercial breakthrough in Canada, with the hits "One Gun" and "One Day in Your Life".
Although the band was popular on college radio in the United States, they never had a commercial breakthrough -- 1992's Dear Dear was their first album not to have a U.S. release. Ironically, though, it was their best-selling album in Canada, leading to a new U.S. contract for the follow up, Smilin' Buddha Cabaret, which had a significant hit in "Ocean Pearl".
The band's song I Go Blind was covered in the mid-1990s by American band Hootie & the Blowfish.
The band's most recent album is 2008's Northern Soul released September 30th,2008 and they wrapped up their tour of Canada at the end of November 2008.
Don't Listen To That
54-40 Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Make her bleed Charlemagne
Was a member of a game --
She surrendered don't listen to
That don't listen to that don't
Listen to that noise here today,
Gone is tomorrow never date the
Witch's sorrow don't listen to that
That noise she never smiles
Selling matches the fire catches
The witches burn don't listen to
That don't listen to that don't listen
To that noise
The lyrics to "Don't Listen To That" by 54-40 speak to the idea of avoiding the noise and distraction of the world around us. The song suggests that there is a system in place that works against us, causing pain and suffering, and that we need to be careful to avoid it. The reference to Charlemagne suggests a long history of oppression and struggle, while the mention of a game implies that we are all players in a larger game.
The line "She surrendered" is particularly poignant, suggesting a sense of defeat and resignation. However, the song ultimately urges us not to give in to this sense of defeat, but to stay strong and resist the forces that would bring us down. The repeated refrain of "don't listen to that noise" underscores the importance of focusing on what is really important, rather than getting caught up in the distractions of everyday life.
Overall, "Don't Listen To That" is a powerful call to action, urging us to be mindful of our surroundings and to stay focused on what really matters. It speaks to the idea of personal responsibility, encouraging us to take control of our lives and to resist the forces that would hold us back.
Line by Line Meaning
Not you, not me it's a system,
The problem is not just limited to you and me, but it's something that stems from a bigger system
Make her bleed Charlemagne
Inflict harm violently, similar to how Charlemagne was known for his conquests
Was a member of a game --
Indicates being a part of something bigger, possibly a scheme or plan
She surrendered don't listen to That
Someone gave up or stopped trying, but it's important not to let that discourage you
Don't listen to that don't listen to that don't Listen to that noise here today,
There are distractions and disturbances around, but it's important to focus and not let them deter you from your goals
Gone is tomorrow never date the Witch's sorrow
The future is uncertain, and it's best not to become too attached to negative experiences that may bring sadness
Don't listen to that Don't listen to that Don't listen to That noise she never smiles
Reiterating, don't let the noise of negativity or distractions bring you down, especially if it's coming from someone who appears to be unhappy themselves
Selling matches the fire catches The witches burn don't listen to That
No matter how innocent or harmless something may seem, it can still lead to danger or harm. It's crucial to stay aware and not be fooled by appearances
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
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