Grunggae
The Breeders Lyrics


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Grunggae!
I know you little libertine
I know you're a real coocoo
I'll be your whatever you want
The bong in this reggae song
I know you little libertine
I know you're a real coocoo




Overall Meaning

"Grunggae" is a song by The Breeders that seems to examine and confront a person involved in a dark and chaotic world. The lyrics reveal that they are addressing someone who is little and has a libertine persona, someone who is a bit crazy or out of control. The singer is willing to be whatever the other person wants or needs, alluding to the fact that the other person may be so unpredictable that it's impossible to make any assumptions. The song itself is a fascinating blend of reggae (signified by the bong referenced in the lyrics) and grunge, two genres that seem to contrast each other, yet The Breeders make it work. It feels both surprising and natural and shows how versatile the band is.


The lyrics in "Grunggae" have additional meanings that can be interpreted in different ways. The word "grunggae" itself can be viewed as a combination of two different genres and also as a combination of two different lifestyles, with grunge representing angst and rebellion and reggae symbolizing a laid-back and peaceful vibe. The phrase "real coocoo" can be taken as an insult or as an acknowledgment of one's unique personality. The line "I know you're a real coocoo" shows that the singer knows the other person well, suggesting they may have a complicated or intimate relationship.


Line by Line Meaning

Grunggae!
This is the title of the song, blending two different genres of music.


I know you little libertine
I am familiar with your rebellious and unorthodox behavior, likely referring to a specific person known to the singer.


I know you're a real coocoo
I know you're a bit crazy or eccentric, but I am still drawn to you and your unpredictable nature.


I'll be your whatever you want
I am willing to be whatever you need or desire, suggesting a willingness to compromise or change for the other person.


The bong in this reggae song
A reference to drug use and the presence of a bong in the music being heard or created.


I know you little libertine
A repeat of the first line, emphasizing the knowledge and familiarity the singer has with the person they are addressing.




Contributed by Nora B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

Google Home1

Finally found it! This was on some CD I copied from friend. No one believed it existed, insisting I'd just heard Cannonball!

Mrs. Rochester

I think I like this more than the album version.

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