John's first record released was under the stage name "Johnny Cougar" at the behest of Tony DeFries, his first manager. Mellencamp claims it was against his knowledge and will, and he hated the name. A few years later in 1982, he made his break through with the album "American Fool" which includes the hit singles "Hurts So Good" and "Jack and Diane" under the stage name "John Cougar". With 1983's "Uh-Huh" album, he added back his real last name to become known as "John Cougar Mellencamp." By 1987's "The Lonesome Jubilee" he dropped the "Cougar" moniker altogether, and has been known henceforth as "John Mellencamp."
Mellencamp has always been socially and politically active and supported the "Vote for Change" Tour in 2004 opposing the policies of President George W. Bush. Mellencamp is a devout evangelical Christian and strongly believes in non-violence; he has spoken about his beliefs frequently in interviews.
Sidewalks And Streetlights
John Mellencamp Lyrics
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Sure has its ups and downs, and Garfield is laughing
Sitting in a dark room, making love with Sylvannia
No so called friends around, cigarettes and champagne
Gonna make me a big star, oh haven't you heard yet
Don't know how its going to go, too young to tell
And if its just my name, well hell I can change it
But its just a dangerous game, that you're playing, oow
And you play it so well, so lets play it again
Sidewalks and Streetlights, sure make a pretty picture
Strangers in the night, are you going my way
You can drop me off at the corner, I can walk the rest of the way
Its not that far to the nearest star
And if its for the money, hey why can't I have it
And if its for the glory, I guess I better grab it fast
But its just a dangerous game, that you're playing, oow
And you play it so well, so lets play it again, oow
Lets play it again
The lyrics of "Sidewalk and Streetlights" by John Mellencamp delves into the allure and risks associated with pursuing fame and fortune. The opening lines refer to the darker, seedy aspects of life, mentioning a homicide on the edge of town. The line "and no one said it be easy, sure has its ups and downs" acknowledges that the journey to success is not without challenges and obstacles.
The mention of Garfield laughing could symbolize the irony of finding amusement in difficult situations. The singer finds himself in a dark room, potentially reflecting a sense of isolation or uncertainty. Mentioning making love with Sylvannia might allude to finding solace or comfort in escapism, represented by a potential romantic partner or a fictional character.
The line "No so called friends around, cigarettes and champagne" could convey a sense of loneliness or the craving for temporary pleasures in the absence of genuine connections. It depicts a desire for indulgence and distraction amidst the pressures of pursuing success.
In the next section, the lyrics shift towards the singer's aspirations for stardom. Expressing intentions to become a big star and the uncertainty surrounding the outcome, the singer acknowledges their youth and inability to foresee the future. The phrase "And if its just my name, well hell I can change it" suggests a willingness to alter their identity for the sake of achieving fame.
The reference to a dangerous game implies that the pursuit of fame comes with its own risks. The singer acknowledges that it is a game they are playing, seemingly aware of the potential pitfalls that lie ahead. Despite the hazards, the allure and excitement of playing this game entice them to continue.
The mention of sidewalks and streetlights creating a pretty picture and strangers in the night potentially going the same way further emphasizes the glamour and appeal of chasing dreams. The desire for success becomes so strong that the singer is willing to rely on the kindness of strangers, even if it means only being dropped off at the corner.
The lyrics circle back to the idea that pursuing money and glory can be enticing. The singer is willing to grasp these opportunities quickly, suggesting an eagerness to seize any chances that come their way. Again, the acknowledgement of the dangerous game being played reiterates the potential risks involved.
In conclusion, "Sidewalk and Streetlights" explores the complexities and contradictions of chasing fame and fortune. It highlights the challenges and risks, but also acknowledges the allure and allurements that come with the pursuit. The lyrics convey the singer's determination to make it big, but also recognize the potential dangers and uncertainties inherent in this endeavor.
Line by Line Meaning
Homicide on the edge of town, and no one said it be easy
There's violence and turmoil in the outskirts of town, and nobody ever claimed life would be simple
Sure has its ups and downs, and Garfield is laughing
Life certainly has its highs and lows, and it seems like even Garfield (a fictional cat known for his sarcasm) finds it amusing
Sitting in a dark room, making love with Sylvannia
Being alone in a dimly lit space, finding solace and comfort in intimate moments with someone named Sylvannia
No so called friends around, cigarettes and champagne
Lacking true friends, resorting to smoking cigarettes and indulging in the luxury of champagne for company
Gonna make me a big star, oh haven't you heard yet
I have aspirations of becoming a celebrity, and it seems like you haven't received the news
Don't know how its going to go, too young to tell
Uncertain of how my journey towards stardom will unfold, as I'm still too inexperienced to predict
And if its just my name, well hell I can change it
If my success relies solely on my name, then I am willing to alter it to achieve my goals
And if its for the fame, I guess I better grab it fast
If fame is the driving force, then I should seize the opportunity quickly
But its just a dangerous game, that you're playing, oow
Yet, this pursuit of fame is a risky and hazardous game that you are engaging in
And you play it so well, so lets play it again
Despite the dangers, you excel at this game, so let's continue playing it
Sidewalks and Streetlights, sure make a pretty picture
The combination of sidewalks and streetlights creates an aesthetically pleasing image
Strangers in the night, are you going my way
Unfamiliar individuals in the darkness, are you headed in the same direction as me?
You can drop me off at the corner, I can walk the rest of the way
You can leave me at the intersection, as I am capable of continuing my journey on foot
Its not that far to the nearest star
The closest point of success isn't too distant, it's within reach
And if its for the money, hey why can't I have it
And if wealth is the motivation, why shouldn't I pursue it?
And if its for the glory, I guess I better grab it fast
And if it's recognition and honor that beckons, then I suppose I must seize it without delay
But its just a dangerous game, that you're playing, oow
Still, it's an unsafe and risky game that you are actively participating in
And you play it so well, so lets play it again, oow
You demonstrate great skill in this game, so let's engage in it once more
Lets play it again
Let's repeat this process or continue this endeavor
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: JOHN MELLENCAMP
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind