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.
Young Genocides
John Mellencamp Lyrics
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Suicides that are still alive
Their success has been so well disguised, yeah
And on their face, is a razors blank stare
As if to know their destiny is going nowhere
But nowhere is not so hard to bare
Where their parents can decide
With their broken pride
Mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers
And the whole world to decide
Desperately searching and dangerously
I deserve,
Not much worse than they are, of the young genocides
Facing the world with your back to the wall
Its hard to feel important at all
The Grand Illusion that'll never come
Its disguised itself as tomorrow
In John Mellencamp's song "Young Genocides," the lyrics describe the struggles and pain of a generation of young people who feel hopeless and alone. The first verse describes the "razors blank stare" on the faces of these young people, indicating their sense of uncertainty and lack of direction. The chorus speaks to their sense of being trapped, with no hope for a better future. The second verse paints a picture of families torn apart, trying to make sense of the world around them while their young ones struggle with their own demons.
The lyrics also speak to the idea of the "Grand Illusion" - the idea that people are sold a dream that will never really come true. Mellencamp seems to be challenging this idea, suggesting that the only way forward is to face the world with your back against the wall, not expecting things to be easy or handed to you. Ultimately, the song seems to be a call to arms for those struggling with depression or hopelessness, urging them to keep going and find their own path in the world.
Overall, "Young Genocides" is a powerful song that speaks to the struggles of an entire generation. Through its haunting lyrics and evocative imagery, it encourages listeners to keep fighting even when life seems impossible.
Line by Line Meaning
Destiny shares the eyes of the young genocides
The future of those who have been victims of genocide is uncertain and bleak.
Suicides that are still alive
People who have lost hope and the will to live continue to exist, but not thrive.
Their success has been so well disguised, yeah
Their struggles have gone unnoticed and unaddressed, despite attempts to overcome them.
And on their face, is a razors blank stare
Their face and expressions lack emotion or sign of hope, perhaps from the pain they have faced.
As if to know their destiny is going nowhere
They seem to have no hope for the future or chance at success.
But nowhere is not so hard to bare
While their circumstances are challenging, they have become accustomed to the struggle and are learning to cope.
Where their parents can decide
The fate and future of young people may be heavily influenced by the decisions of their parents or guardians.
Hand and hand they walk together
Community and family support helps young people navigate the challenges of this world.
With their broken pride
The trials and trauma they have experienced may make it difficult for them to feel a sense of self-worth or dignity.
Mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers
Family relationships are integral to the success and well-being of young people.
And the whole world to decide
There are a multitude of choices and possibilities for young people, full of both hope and fear.
Desperately searching and dangerously
The search for a better future can be both urgent and challenging.
I deserve,
The singer recognizes their own struggles and challenges.
Not much worse than they are, of the young genocides
The singer acknowledges the similarities between their own challenges and the struggles of victims of genocide.
Facing the world with your back to the wall
The world can be a daunting and unforgiving place, especially when facing so many challenges.
Its hard to feel important at all
Challenges can make it hard for young people to feel a sense of value or worth.
The Grand Illusion that'll never come
The promise of a better future or a world without hardship may be impossible or out of reach.
Its disguised itself as tomorrow
The hope for a better future can seem like it is always just out of reach or just around the corner.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA/AMCOS
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