Gangsters
The Specials Lyrics


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Bernie Rhodes knows don't argue

Why must you record my phone calls?
Are you planning a bootleg LP?
Said you've been threatened by gangsters
Now it's you that's threatening me

Can't fight corruption with con tricks
They use the law to commit crime
And I dread, dread to think what the future will bring
When we're living in gangster time

Don't call me scar face

Can't interrupt while I'm talking
Or they'll confiscate all your guitars
And Catch-22 says if I sing the truth
They won't make me an overnight star

Don't offer us legal protection
They use the law to commit crime
I dread to think what the future will bring
When we're living in real gangster time





Bernie Rhodes knows don't argue

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to The Specials' song Gangsters are a critique of the music industry and the corruption that exists within it. The song is directed towards music producers who exploit and take advantage of artists for their own financial gain. The line "Bernie Rhodes knows don't argue" is a reference to a music producer named Bernie Rhodes who was notorious for being difficult to work with and having a confrontational attitude towards artists.


The opening lines of the song, "Why must you record my phone calls? Are you planning a bootleg LP?" express the frustration of artists who are constantly being monitored and controlled by their producers. The mention of "gangsters" in the second verse refers to the corrupt individuals who use their power and influence to intimidate and threaten artists into complying with their demands.


The lyrics also touch on the idea that it is impossible to fight against corruption using dishonest tactics; "Can't fight corruption with con tricks, they use the law to commit crime." This line emphasizes the need for honesty, integrity and justice within the music industry. The song ends on a powerful note, "I dread to think what the future will bring when we're living in real gangster time," suggesting that if the current pattern of corruption continues, it will ultimately lead to dire consequences.


Line by Line Meaning

Bernie Rhodes knows don't argue
Bernie Rhodes, the band's manager, is someone not to be questioned or argued with.


Why must you record my phone calls?
Why do you feel the need to invade my privacy and record my phone conversations?


Are you planning a bootleg LP?
Do you intend to make and sell unauthorized recordings of our music?


Said you've been threatened by gangsters
You claim that you've been threatened by underworld figures.


Now it's you that's threatening me
But now you're the one who is making threats toward me.


Can't fight corruption with con tricks
We can't combat corruption and criminal acts by resorting to deceitful practices ourselves.


They use the law to commit crime
In fact, those engaging in criminal behavior often abuse legal channels to carry out their misdeeds.


And I dread, dread to think what the future will bring
I'm deeply worried about the direction our society is headed, and the consequences of continued criminal activity and corruption.


When we're living in gangster time
It seems as though we're entering a period where organized crime and illicit activities will become increasingly prevalent.


Don't call me scar face
I don't appreciate being likened to the infamous gangster character Tony Montana from the film Scarface.


Can't interrupt while I'm talking
Please don't interrupt me while I'm speaking.


Or they'll confiscate all your guitars
The authorities may seize all of our musical instruments if we don't follow their rules and regulations.


And Catch-22 says if I sing the truth
I find myself in a paradoxical situation where, if I speak out and tell the truth, I may face backlash or punishment from those in power.


They won't make me an overnight star
I won't become an overnight sensation just by doing what the powers-that-be expect of me, but nor will I compromise my principles.


Don't offer us legal protection
We don't need your legal protection or assistance, as it too often goes hand-in-hand with criminal activity.


I dread to think what the future will bring
Again, I'm deeply concerned about what the future holds for us.


When we're living in real gangster time
I fear that we'll be facing extremely challenging times when organized crime and corrupt forces are in the ascendency.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Royalty Network, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Jerry Dammers, John Bradbury, Lynval Golding, Neville Staples, Roderick Byers, Stephen Panter, Terry Hall

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@chenzenzo

Rest easy Terry! The specials changed my life.
I've been a mod since I was a little kid and this one hurts like hell.
Thank you for the glorious legacy of music you with us.
❤️❤️❤️❤️🕴🏿🕴🏻🕴🏾🕴🏻🕴🏽🕴️❤️❤️❤️❤️

@julieeales

So incredibly sad we've lost another specials legend ,Hope you meet up with Bradders up there ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

@davidchilds1443

Well said. Terrible loss of a super talent 💔

@kimberleylucey9533

Yes this one is a real tough one

@Brighid45

Well said.

@toddmichaeljohnson7139

I feel your pain right now. The Specials had a huge influence on my teenage mind. ❤️

7 More Replies...

@ichwanrasyid8638

RIP Terry Hall. Very sad to hear this news tonight. You made the world a better place with your lyrics and tunes. Rest easy ❤️

@FFM0594

They weren't his lyrics or tunes, they were Jerry Dammers.

@kevinodell4129

@@FFM0594 a lot of the first album were cover versions

@susaninhacouto

I will adoro you

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