Influenced by contemporary electropop and the flashy new wave scene, Sembello released his debut solo album in 1983, picking up some commercial success. The song "Maniac" was selected for inclusion in the blockbuster movie 'Flashdance'. Rumored to have been first based on a serial killer from a slasher film, it had a tense, nervy sound with a darker energy than most pop tunes. The track went on to become the third highest grossing song from a film soundtrack in history at that point. His contribution to that soundtrack was rewarded with a Grammy in 1983, when said soundtrack won for 'Best Album of Original Score Written for a Motion Picture or a Television Special'.
Sembello has done considerable soundtrack work since, including such movies as 'Cocoon', 'Gremlins', and 'Independence Day'. As well, his later career has been often focused on Eastern music and spirituality. Sembello has recorded his vocals in six languages and released several albums over his long career. His latest work is 2003's soft rock inspired 'Lost Years'.
Superman
Michael Sembello Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
and the world has forgotten your name
After life after life you remember
the secret
He's as fast as a speeding bullet
Change the water into wine
And the last time he came
With a kryptonite cross
they cut him down
Superman
Are we ever going to see you again
If we do will you teach us how to fly above the sky?
Some say at the end of the tunnel
There's a light that will show us the way
It's a light that belongs to the people of every nation, color or creed
I can't speak for all of the sinners
I don't know any saints I could ask
It's been 2000 years since we've seen you
We need you
Please come back
Superman
Are we ever going to see you again
If we do will you teach us how to fly above the sky?
All of the pain in your life
How can we ever repay?
And the answer, you said
is in the life that you led, Superman
Superman
Are we ever going to see you again
If we do will you teach us how to fly above the sky?
The lyrics to Michael Sembello's song "Superman" portray a sense of longing and desperation for the return of the titular hero. As the song begins, the listener is introduced to a mysterious figure who stands at the edge of existence and is seemingly forgotten by the world. However, this figure possesses a secret that they have remembered after countless lives. As the song progresses, we hear of the incredible feats that Superman is capable of, such as being as fast as a speeding bullet and changing water into wine. However, despite these remarkable abilities, the people turned against him in the end, leading to his demise at the hands of a "kryptonite cross."
The chorus of the song is a plea to Superman to return and teach the people how to fly above the sky. The verses echo this sentiment, with lines such as "We need you, please come back" highlighting the desperation that the people feel for Superman's presence. The song ends with an acknowledgement of the sacrifice that Superman made, and the idea that the answer to all the pain and suffering in the world lies in the life that he led.
Overall, "Superman" is a melancholic and heartfelt tribute to a beloved icon. The lyrics elevate Superman to a deity-like status, with his absence felt as a great loss for all of humanity. The song encourages the listener to reflect on the impact that Superman has had on the world, and to consider the hope that his return could bring.
Line by Line Meaning
As you stand at the edge of existence
As you face the unknown future
and the world has forgotten your name
When nobody remembers who you are
After life after life you remember
Through every reincarnation, you retain knowledge
the secret
The hidden power within you
He's as fast as a speeding bullet
Superman is incredibly quick and agile
Change the water into wine
An allusion to Jesus Christ's miraculous abilities
And the last time he came
The last time Superman visited
They cursed his name
People spoke ill of him
With a kryptonite cross
they cut him down
A reference to Superman's weakness and vulnerability
Superman
Are we ever going to see you again
If we do will you teach us how to fly above the sky?
Will Superman return and share his knowledge and powers with us?
Some say at the end of the tunnel
There's a belief that there's light at the end of the tunnel
There's a light that will show us the way
A guiding light that leads the way
It's a light that belongs to the people of every nation, color or creed
The light is for everyone regardless of race, color, or religion
I can't speak for all of the sinners
I cannot represent everyone who has sinned
I don't know any saints I could ask
I don't know any holy people to inquire with
It's been 2000 years since we've seen you
It's been centuries since we've encountered Superman
We need you
Please come back
Humanity needs Superman's help and presence
All of the pain in your life
All the suffering you've endured
How can we ever repay?
How can we ever make it up to you?
And the answer, you said
is in the life that you led, Superman
Superman's legacy lies in the life he lived and the good he did for others
Contributed by Leo I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.