In 2006, the band released its debut album, cuban ballerina on Fat Wreck Chords. Many of Dead To Me's songs deal with addiction and recovery (Chicken had recently emerged from rehab), while others address strife around the world (ie. war in Iraq and expanding prison systems). It was produced by Alex Newport, who previously produced records for At the drive-in and the locust.
What's Wrong
Dead to Me Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
For once I'd like to watch like I don't care
Patriots with crosses to bear, all the excess and media fear
Superficial superlies, CFC's and patricide
I don't wanna sound afraid
Don't wanna keep you awake
I don't wanna let you down
To blow, like a big fucking volcano
Spewing knives and venom and poisonous two headed toads
With words uglier than your face and the lies that you're telling me
An implacable foe to break up the hold that you got on me
I don't wanna sound afraid
Don't wanna keep you awake
I don't wanna let you down
The lyrics to Dead to Me's song What's Wrong speak about the desire to be free from guilt and worry, while also addressing the problems and excesses of society. The opening lines express the desire to wake up without feeling guilty for something, possibly indicating a sense of self-doubt and worry. The following lines mention "patriots with crosses to bear" and "media fear," which could refer to the negative effects of nationalism and fear-mongering in society. The reference to "CFC's," or chlorofluorocarbons, could be a nod to environmental concerns and the negative impact of pollution.
The chorus expresses a desire to not cause harm or disappointment, but also hints at a need for self-expression and release. The lines "I don't wanna sound afraid, Don't wanna keep you awake, I don't wanna let you down" could speak to the pressure to conform and please others, while also hinting at a need to be true to oneself. The final lines of the chorus, "I think I just need a little time," suggest the importance of taking a break and finding one's own path.
The second verse takes a more aggressive tone, with the mention of a "big fucking volcano" and "words uglier than your face." This could refer to a desire to release pent-up emotions and frustrations, or possibly a rejection of societal norms and expectations. The reference to "the lies that you're telling me" suggests a sense of betrayal and deception, possibly in a personal relationship.
Overall, the lyrics to What's Wrong seem to address both personal and societal issues, expressing a desire to be free from guilt and conformity while also recognizing and criticizing the negative aspects of modern culture.
Line by Line Meaning
Well, for once I'd like to wake without feeling guilty
I wish I could wake up without the burden of guilt for all the wrong I've done.
For once I'd like to watch like I don't care
I want to detach myself and not care about things happening around me even if it's important.
Patriots with crosses to bear, all the excess and media fear
People are too blinded by their patriotism and fears created by the media, and carry an unnecessary burden on their shoulders.
Superficial superlies, CFC's and patricide
The world is full of fake truths, harmful chemicals, and people killing their own fathers, figuratively or literally.
I don't wanna sound afraid
I don't want to show fear or weakness.
Don't wanna keep you awake
I don't want to burden you with my problems or thoughts.
I don't wanna let you down
I don't want to disappoint you or fail to meet your expectations.
I think I just need a little time
I need some time alone to sort out my feelings and emotions, without any distractions or influence.
To blow, like a big fucking volcano
I want to vent out my anger and frustration like a violent volcanic eruption.
Spewing knives and venom and poisonous two headed toads
I will spew out hurtful words and negativity, and unleash my anger on others like venomous toads.
With words uglier than your face and the lies that you're telling me
My words will be crueler and more hurtful than anything you've ever said, and I won't believe any of your lies.
An implacable foe to break up the hold that you got on me
I will become your enemy and do everything in my power to break free from your control and influence.
Contributed by Isaac H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
xokayox
I firmly believe this show was mostly overlooked because it stars two actresses over 40 who delve into topics like divorce, revisiting your sexuality as a middle age woman, parenting, etc. A lot of early reviews when the first season came out likened this show to “something found on lifetime.” Which is disheartening and obviously missed the overall message and theme this show portrays. I’m just happy someone with a platform finally gave this show some well deserved love
Zofia R
That's true, it probably would have been more popular if it had younger)(or male?) leads, which is sad.
Rogue Wolf
@M A. Thats what im saying, I think maybe I have a different definition of relate than most ppl. That might be causing a misunderstanding
M A.
@Rogue Wolf while I get that, I feel like people can relate to most characters cuz if written well, they usually are part of the human experience. Even if you can’t relate, you can still form a connection through empathy. You can still put yourself in their shoes
Welcome totokyo
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Wynn Gwynn
@Trina Q I don't understand why people would shy away from watching though, they are both absolutely stunning and amazing in the roles. I knew when I saw who was playing the main characters that it would probably at least be worth investigating. It was hard not to binge the first season all in one go lol.
Trina Q
I loved how Judy's bisexuality was rightly treated as a non issue. She fell for Michelle because she "made her feel good", and her feelings for Michelle are just as valid as her ones for Steve had been.
Summer Rose
@gracie You're probably a sweet person, however you're a stranger and strangers tend to be more dangerous when they obsess over someone they don't know online. Thanks, but no thanks. Wish the best of luck to you though.
Trina Q
@gracie Sure, we must certainly think alike! Nice to meet you this side of YouTube.
Adam StrangeLove
@gracie I never seen someone make friends through a YouTube video before. This was neat to witness. I hope you guys really hit it off and become the best of friends