One of the best known American power pop bands, the group's biggest hits over the years include "I Want You to Want Me", "Surrender", "Dream Police", "Don't Be Cruel" (a cover of Elvis Presley's hit), and "The Flame". Their most recent release, The Latest, has gained critical acclaim. They also wrote and performed the theme song for "The Colbert Report" as well as "That 70s Show", both tunes being fan favorites.
Nielsen and Petersson originally formed the group as Fuse in 1967, with Carlos joining the group several years later; however, when Zander joined as vocalist in 1972, the group was renamed Cheap Trick. Zander is considered one of the best hard rock vocalists of his era. For their part, Tom Petersson has been known for playing custom made 8, 12, and even a 18 string custom bass made by Modulus for Tom in 1981 and Rick Nielsen also has a penchant for unusual instruments. He owns and plays a five-necked solidbody electric guitar (it can be seen in the video for the song "She's Tight" among others).
Studio Albums
(1977) Cheap Trick [a.k.a Cheap Trick (1997)]
(1977) In Color
(1978) Heaven Tonight
(1979) Dream Police
(1980) All Shook Up
(1980) Found All The Parts
(1982) One on One
(1983) Next Position Please
(1985) Standing on the Edge
(1986) The Doctor
(1988) Lap of Luxury
(1990) Busted
(1994) Woke Up With A Monster
(1997) Cheap Trick [a.k.a Cheap Trick (1997)]
(2003) Special One
(2006) Rockford
(2009) The Latest
(2016) Bang, Zoom, Crazy...Hello
(2017) We're All Alright!
(2021) In Another World
[Live Albums]
(1978) At Budokan
(1978) Budokan II
(1998) At Budokan: the Complete Concert
(1999) Music for Hangovers
(2001) Silver
ELO Kiddies
Cheap Trick Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
What ya gonna do when the lights start shining?
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
What ya gonna do when your head's exploding?
So you missed some school?
You know school's for fools
Today money rules
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
What ya gonna do when your stomach's burning?
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
What ya gonna do when your guts start churning?
You lead a life of crime
You gotta go unwind
You haven't got much time
You know they're out to get you
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
What ya gonna do when you get religion?
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
Hope you didn't get it on the television
The lyrics to Cheap Trick's song "ELO Kiddies" seem to be a commentary on the state of society, specifically younger generations. The first verse asks "what ya gonna do when the lights start shining" and "what ya gonna do when your head's exploding." These lines could be interpreted as a warning that the world is waking up to the actions of the younger generation, and there will be consequences.
The second verse seems to be addressing the idea that education is no longer the key to success, and that "money rules." The line "everybody steals it" could be a commentary on the corrupt nature of those in power, and how young people feel they have to resort to crime to survive. The chorus then asks "what ya gonna do when your stomach's burning" and "what ya gonna do when your guts start churning," suggesting that these young people are living dangerously and will eventually suffer for their actions.
The third verse addresses religion, questioning what these young people will do if they decide to follow a religious path. The final line "hope you didn't get it on the television" is an ironic jab at the idea that religion can be found through mass media, such as televangelists.
Overall, "ELO Kiddies" is a commentary on the pressures facing the younger generation and how they are reacting to them. The song suggests that these young people are living dangerously and will suffer the consequences of their actions.
Line by Line Meaning
Elo kiddies, elo kiddies
Addressing the youth, the singer says 'Hello kiddies'
What ya gonna do when the lights start shining?
Asking what the youth will do when they face success or the limelight.
What ya gonna do when your head's exploding?
Asking what the youth will do when they face mental or emotional stress.
You know school's for fools
Belittling the importance of education in today's society.
Today money rules
Stating that the current time is controlled by money or capitalist ideals.
And everybody steals it
Portraying a pessimistic view that everyone is involved in corrupt activities, mainly involving money.
What ya gonna do when your stomach's burning?
Asking what the youth will do when they face physical pain or hunger.
What ya gonna do when your guts start churning?
Asking what the youth will do when they face uncomfortable situations or anxiety.
You gotta go unwind
Suggesting that the youth needs to take a break or relax from their stressful lifestyle.
You lead a life of crime
Accusing the youth of taking part in criminal activities or an immoral lifestyle.
You know they're out to get you
Warns the youth that they are being targeted or watched by authorities for their bad behavior.
What ya gonna do when you get religion?
Asking what the youth will do when they are exposed to or interested in religion.
Hope you didn't get it on the television
Suggesting that the youth should learn about religion through personal experience or discovery, rather than through TV or media.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: RICK NIELSEN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@MultiChillidog
I'm 61 yrs old, and CT has been my favorite all time group for past 40 years! Yet every time I watch these types of videos, I am always completely astounded by how accomplished all 4 of them are at their craft. Rick Nielsen, has to be one of the greatest lead guitarist of all time. Tom Petersson is by far the greatest 12 string (or any other type) of Bass guitarist to walk this earth, Robin Zander has a vocal range un matched, as well as IMO the greatest Rock vocalist ever, and Bun E, is absolutely phenomenal on the drums, and maybe the most under rated musician of all time,, no one can carry the beat and be the backbone of the sound as good as Bun E!
@jamesbarrick3403
I share your attitude... but lets be real, they are a mark in time. They had to write and record a Ballad to gain #1 success (they are not alone). Rock on Garth I say. I absolutely despise cuck rock - and everything from this band in the first few albums simply rocked so good. Tom Peterson is an innovator. He basically told Hamer guitars to build what he wanted... and it was awesome. Now you have a bassist that is also a rhythm guitarist. Rick he was simply solid. Unique for sure, but nothing over the top to be honest. He was perfect IMO. Robin was the dude. He stepped up and delivered. Professional. Bun E Carlos... perfect rock drummer IMO he never overplayed and always on point. I love this band.
@bartonpercival2147
Robin’s one of the best rock vocalists, and a very underrated guitar player!!!!!!!!!!!
@shonnamay8331
He does play quite well doesn't he?
And Ive always loved how slow and elegant he slings his quitar over his shoulder and walks so confident and humble to the Mike.♥️♥️😘
Brings a smile to my face and a warm fuzzy to my heart still to this day ♥️
@bartonpercival2147
Shonna May Yes I agree, Robin’s the ultimate rock & roller. I’ve seen CT over 25 times live, and along with his incredible vocal range, he’s always had a great front man presence!!!!!!!!!
@andymelendez9757
Yes! Listen to him on Ricks solo
@Shell6424
This must sound awesome live, Bun’s beat makes the song even better.
@elyneburns2224
'Played this vinyl incessantly when it came out way back when - it still rocks pretty hard - what a unique band, in terms of style & sound - all these years later, I don't believe I've heard anyone else before or since that's quite like them
@andymelendez9757
There’s an echo in the room.
Landmark album!
@williamreynolds4855
You said it perfect , nobody then or since sound like them