D.O.A. has always maintained an uncompromising leftist political stance. The band is known for its outspoken political opinions and has a history of performing for many causes and benefits. Its slogan is "Talk minus Action equals Zero." The band has been active on many issues, including anti-racism, anti-globalization, freedom of speech, and the environment.
Slumlord
D.O.A. Lyrics
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The lyrics to D.O.A.'s song "Slumlord" address the issue of living under the control of a landlord who does not care about the conditions of his tenants. The lines "the neighbourhood bully is after me waving his finger like a pistol. flappin' his jaw like adolph hitler" illustrate the idea of the landlord as an oppressive figure who exerts his power over the tenants. The repetition of the phrase "slumlord - my overlord" emphasizes the landlord's dominance over the tenants and their feeling of being trapped in their situation.
The lyrics also comment on the inequality between the landlord and the tenants. The line "your reality and your title fits your deed" suggests that the landlord's title as a landlord matches his actions as a slumlord. The mention of "each little peasant with their plot" illustrates the tenants' powerlessness in the face of the landlord's authority. The use of the word "prison" to describe the living conditions of the tenants underscores the oppressive nature of the situation.
Overall, "Slumlord" is a social commentary on the issue of poor housing conditions and the power dynamics that exist between landlords and tenants.
Line by Line Meaning
the neighbourhood bully is after me waving his finger like a pistol.
I am being pursued by someone in my community who is intimidating me with aggressive gestures.
flappin' his jaw like adolph hitler.
This person is also speaking with authority and arrogance, using language that echoes the rhetoric of a notorious historical dictator.
slumlord - my overlord.
The person I am describing has control over my living conditions and is exploiting me as a tenant.
slumlord - i got no choice.
I am powerless to change my situation and must therefore submit to the control of this slumlord.
slumlord - your reality and your title fits your deed.
The slumlord is accurately named and identified by their role as the owner of a run-down and poorly maintained property, which is a reflection of their values and morality.
it's all laid out like a prison block.
The living conditions that the slumlord provides are reminiscent of a jail, with no freedom or autonomy for the tenant.
each little peasant with their plot.
The people who live there are reduced to a state of powerlessness and subservience, like serfs or laborers.
Contributed by Eva O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
The Iceman
wow all these times over the years (since '82) that I've heard this and I finally now notice the incredible drumming by Chuck Biscuits that starts around 1:33...
Gasu Trías
😍
60187guy
82 - 0 !
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