Runnin’ around
The B-52’s Lyrics

The B-52's's song "Runnin Around" is a fun and upbeat track that explores the frustration of looking for a loved one who is nowhere to be found. The lyrics are simplistic and repetitive, but they convey the eagerness and impatience of the singer who is searching high and low for their missing baby. The singer is looking all over town, from restaurants to stores, from beauty parlors to the mall, chasing rainbows in the mud as they run around hoping to find their love. Despite the lack of specific details, the lyrics evoke a sense of urgency and excitement, as the singer is determined to catch up with their missing partner.

One possible interpretation of the song is that it reflects the restless spirit and adventurous attitude that characterized the late 1970s, when The B-52's emerged as part of the New Wave movement. The band's music was known for its quirky lyrics, unconventional instrumentation, and playful energy, which appealed to audiences looking for an alternative to mainstream rock and disco. "Runnin Around" captures that vibe with its catchy melody, handclaps, and call-and-response vocals, as if the band is encouraging the listener to join their wild chase for love and freedom.

Another way to view "Runnin Around" is as a commentary on the thrill and peril of urban life. The song's setting is a bustling cityscape, full of neon signs, crowded sidewalks, and endless options for entertainment and distraction. The singer seems to be intoxicated by the sights and sounds of the city, but also frustrated by its vastness and anonymity. They long for the intimacy and security of being with their beloved, even as they realize how elusive and unpredictable love can be. The song suggests that sometimes the best way to find what you're looking for is to keep running, even if it means getting lost or sidetracked along the way.