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.
Life Goes On
54-40 Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
I'm picky I'm picky to what you got goin on
No entry get a ticket
When the lights go off
I Hold ass you hold grudges
I don't ever make friends
I have a friend in this mic
That say they don't bite
I finally found myself cnd i cant afford to fuck up
Okay i finally find myself and you can't put me aside
I Got tired,tired of living of my life
But on the real,i got tired, tiredOf livingyour life
Using a tv remote,to try to control my life
I stopped making excuses
Then i started making The music
I moved on to the better
You probably mad at me
For choosing to make bread at a different factory
What can i say if they do it better
That's how the cookie crumbles
Niggas change when we show up
But the girls show love
Packed stoves when we roll up
So load more then we go brov
Been diet broke can get you holed up
Back when I was a loner
Gustav my hype man
Studio was banging with the rats holed up
Back then girls would show no love
Didn't you know love
Power rangers
Like the other side we show no love
Bend the block
Break your heart
Throw the rock
Told little niggas got big issues
Tryna fill in my shoes
But haven't walked 8 miles in my view
Reporting from the other side of the wild
Shake up the whole industry
Fuck all these niggaz
We don't vibe with your energy
But its clright
But it'd fine
But it's alright
It's all right
Yeah yeah yeah
(Every Sound Is Music)
The lyrics of "Life Goes On" by 54-40 explore themes of self-discovery, resilience, and defiance against societal expectations. The opening lines emphasize a sense of selectivity and discernment in a person's choices and interactions. The singer asserts their independence and assertiveness, hinting at a reluctance to conform to external pressures or influences. This sets the tone for a narrative of self-empowerment and self-definition.
The lyrics delve into the singer's mistrust of others, particularly those who may have ulterior motives or hidden agendas. There is a clear division between genuine connections, such as the one with the microphone as a trusted confidant, and superficial relationships with individuals who may not have the singer's best interests at heart. The mention of "snakes" alludes to deceitful or manipulative individuals who pretend not to harm, serving as a cautionary reminder to stay vigilant and protect oneself from those who seek to exploit vulnerability.
As the song progresses, there is a shift towards active decision-making and reclaiming personal agency. The singer expresses a refusal to be complacent or stagnant, acknowledging past mistakes and striving for growth and self-improvement. By prioritizing their own authenticity and creative pursuits over external expectations, the singer embraces a sense of liberation and autonomy. This journey of self-transformation is reflected in the transition from making excuses to making music, symbolizing a shift towards purposeful expression and artistic fulfillment.
The lyrics also touch upon themes of resilience in the face of adversity and the defiance against conformity. The singer challenges societal norms and expectations, positioning themselves as an outsider who refuses to conform to conventional standards. There is a sense of rebellion and solidarity with like-minded individuals who reject the status quo and embrace their unique identities. Through their bold declaration of independence and non-conformity, the singer asserts their right to chart their own path and define success on their own terms. The repeated refrain of "But it's alright" serves as a mantra of assurance and affirmation, reinforcing the message that despite obstacles and opposition, life goes on and the singer will persevere.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind