Given the long-running nature of the band, many participants in the D.C. hardcore scene had gone through G.I.'s membership. Government issue featured Brian Baker of Minor Threat, as well as Mike Fellows of Rites Of Spring and many others.
The G.I.s, as they were known, became one of the longest-running bands in the D.C. hardcore scene. After numerous line-up changes, the band broke up in 1989, vocalist John Stabb (aka: "Fruit Loops", he also had a band called Betty Blue in the mid-'90s, around 96-98, not sure of the status of that group, however) and guitarist Tom Lyle formed an experimental outfit called Glee Club and made two records. In addition, Tom Lyle made two solo records that were a more straight-ahead hard rock in 1990 and 1992.
Tom Lyle, Bassist J. Robbins, and drummer Peter Moffett regrouped to record two unrecorded G.I. songs. This was released as the Rollkicker Laydown E.P.
Bassist Jay Robbins went on to form Jawbox. Robbins later began Burning Airlines with G.I. drummer Peter Moffett.
Stabb formed the D.C. quintet The Factory Incident in 2000.
Young Love
Government Issue Lyrics
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Of media sex
Patriotic puppets
Bloodthirsty journalists
That's what young love's all about
Of drug problems
Of Americana
Gingerbread palaces
That's what young love's all about
In the song "Young Love" by Government Issue, the band addresses the issues plaguing society that have become a part of young love. From the perpetuation of violence in the world, to the promotion of sex in media, to the manipulation of patriotism by political puppets, and the glorification of bloodshed by journalists, these issues are ever-present and omnipresent in the lives of young people. The lyrics suggest that these things have become what young love is all about, representing a distorted and twisted view of what love and affection should entail. The second verse addresses the drug problems that have become a part of youth culture, as well as the myth of the American Dream perpetuated through the façade of storybook houses and gingerbread palaces. Ultimately, the song appears to be a criticism of the societal problems that are affecting young people and their perceptions of love and relationships.
One interesting fact about the song is that it was released in 1981 as a part of the band's debut album "Legless Bull". Another interesting fact is that Government Issue was a part of the Washington D.C. hardcore punk scene, which was a hotbed of political and social activism. The band was known for their politically charged lyrics and their support of causes such as animal rights, anti-nuclear proliferation, and opposition to the Vietnam War. Additionally, Government Issue was one of the first punk bands to incorporate metal elements into their sound, which was particularly evident in their later albums.
Moreover, the band's lead singer, John Stabb, was a well-known figure in the D.C. scene and was known for his energetic stage presence and charismatic personality. He was also openly gay and often wrote lyrics addressing issues of homosexuality and LGBTQ+ rights, a rarity in the punk scene at the time. The song "Young Love" remains a staple in the hardcore punk canon and has been covered by numerous bands over the years.
As for the chords, "Young Love" is a relatively simple song and can be played using power chords. The chords for the chorus are A5, G5, and D5, while the verse uses the chords A5, G5, and F5. The song features a straightforward punk rock rhythm and is marked by its driving energy and memorable chorus.
Line by Line Meaning
Of world violence
The world is filled with violence and turmoil.
Of media sex
Sexual content is prevalent in media and entertainment.
Patriotic puppets
People blindly follow their government and patriotism without questioning their actions and motives.
Bloodthirsty journalists
Journalists are often more interested in sensationalizing news and generating controversy than reporting facts or unbiased information.
That's what young love's all about
This is the environment and culture in which young people fall in love and form relationships.
Of drug problems
Drug addiction and abuse are common issues affecting society.
Of Americana
The idealized and often glamorized American culture and way of life.
Storybook houses
The dream of a perfect and idyllic home and life, as portrayed in children's storybooks.
Gingerbread palaces
An unrealistic image of grandeur and luxury, similar to the gingerbread house in Hansel and Gretel.
Contributed by Vivian J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.