Kinks miles ahead of Beatles and Rolling Stones. Thy are the real artists responding to their social context with acute sensitivity; genius creativity; supreme chops and spot on sensibility. Beatles and Stones a bit less and a bit more idol aura and snoggy romanticism based on their looks and personas. Of course Lennon on his own was closer to be a real artist but I think Davies' brothers have him beat. Dave Davies just released 1970s solo album "Hidden Treasures" I hear it's phenomenal.
@TheKardiacKid Social Welfare goes against the most basic natural order, survival of the fittest. If I'm feeling generous I would like to choose where and to who my money will go (i.e buying a homeless man a sandwich, giving to a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter or whatever) not having the state do it for me
@QueenetBowie ABSOLUTELY!!! The problem with this is that welfare was never intended to make poor people well.... it is to make politicians relevant and wealthy. Welfare goes against the 10th amendment as does any federal social plan.. ie social security, medicare, medicade etc.... Those who are on welfare would find a way to survive without it.. instead, they are trained to be lazy and non - productive slime..
Yep, this would be another on MY top 100 albums, along with two others, at least!
Been listening to this for 20yrs, Ray is such a great writer eh? Such truth while being tongue in cheek & thumbing their noses at everyone, laugh while you cry right?!?
@TheTaterman83 I agree. It's a masterpiece. Great songs and performances, and some of Dave's best guitar - shame he didn't do any more slide guitar after this, because he was really smokin' on this album.
@LIBERTINEPARANOIC early man walk away as modern man took control, our minds were all the same to conquer was his goal, so he built this great empire and slaughtered his own kind, he died a confused man, killed himself with his own mind. - bad religion. Please explain how this civilization is any different than those before it? Man and animal are the same, get use to it or get out. Its naive to think mankind can maintain PEACE now or ever. (the strong survive)
@LIBERTINEPARANOIC i actually do enjoy being a 21st century man, although there are the idiots like you that make us look bad coming out of the twenty-ferth century i like to think there are more than enough people that can teeter the totter from apathy to boredom and boredom to action given the right circumstances, and its that hope as well as modern luxury that keeps me from the knife
It's music. Most groups didn't begin as students that bumped into each other at a MENSA convention & decided to discuss world politics & bang became music gods. Why would anyone follow actors, athletes, stars. They're famous & rich-so they must have the answers.Dems., Reps.& other parties point fingers @ each other-it's music. Here in America we are lucky enough to have a government that tells you what you need to know, learn, like, accept & believe in-I'm from the government-I'm here to help
It's a shame people of the 21st century can't relate to those of the 20th. Just another "step for mankind" I guess. Even Germans didn't see the writing on the wall. Mob mentality in revolution is coming soon with ability to communicate 'en mass, by the media, to a neighborhood near you. If there is a God, may he protect me from his believers that believe their belief is "the one"!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have to say, I don't agree with him on everything, but he's one of the few politicians who's in it because of civic pride and patriotism and seems to have the best intentions. I wouldn't be opposed to a term of him. Cross our fingers and hope the office doesn't corrupt him. But a guy who's stood his ground through as much ridicule from both the mainstream and his own party and STILL stands his ground is a surer bet than these big business cronies and guys with no experience.
@EccentricSage ....Yeah.....Ron understands the role of government in a constitutional republic, my belief is that he is well aware of the "good ole boy" club, he's been there awhile and he's on to them. You will never here people like Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachmann, Newt, Mitt or any of the others bring up the subject of the Fed.....because they are frightened by the power of the banks in this country.
I could see Sarah and Bachmann go for it, but not out of any understanding of our rights or constitution. I could see them using it as a gimmick to try get votes from Ron Paul supporters. All the while they'd reassure the Fed and their wealthy constituents that they don't really mean it. Sign up for the Republican propaganda news list 'Town Hall' to see just how far these types go to garner support. Caution: it might make you violently ill at times.
@EccentricSage ....Yeah...I'll take a look at it. Sarah and Michelle will never mention the Fed, both of them are commited Zionists and Michelle is Jewish, sometimes it seems as though Sarah just wishes she was. lol
obama is a much bigger threat than republican fears u may have.... by the way, last time i checked, rich people create jobs,,, not the democrats , liberals, or, moonbats...another liberal propaganda idea is that only the evil republicans are Rich,,,,every democrat in the congress and senate are just eeking by on meager salaries ,,,,,,,, better tax those corporate jets and nasty yachts...
*sigh* Sorry, I shouldn't have lost my temper, but I am so sick of people assuming they know where I stand and preaching to me about 'superior republican economics' which is bullshit, too. Both sides are fucked. Yes, we need job creation, but not at the cost of worker's rights. Some on the right want us to be reduced to the working conditions and living standards of China while they give tax cuts and free money to the top 1%.
Hey guys this is a great song, i was wondering if you guys could go to my page and listen to my new songs and tell me what you think! thanks Everyone its a new band named Communication Eruption!
All this new-fangled high-tech and new science stuff hasn't led us to the Promised Land. Modern more abstract expression as manifested in art, music, literature, communicates less to us. That's what I get out of this song. And all embedded in an album about the false promises of urban renewal. It's brilliant.
Now this is what I call rock n roll. Steady beat, shouting it out with no need for smoke bombs, high heels or masturbating guitar solos. Just wind it up and rock it out. -Gets me moving ...like it!
basic and easy to cover? Yeah, if you don't try to play like Dave and sing like Ray, or reproduce the perfect rhythm section performance, or John Gosling's playing.
LYRICS Part 3 I was born in a welfare state Ruled by bureaucracy Controlled by civil servants And people dressed in grey Got no privacy, got no liberty Cos the 20th century people Took it all away from me Don't wanna get myself shot down By some trigger happy policeman Gotta keep a hold on my sanity I'm a 20th century man but I don't wanna die here
Thanks man, so many utter squares controling things now, quite stiff and unnatural, disordered as their squareness reigns, no roundness of the heart remains, until death do we part unto God forever. Amen+Amen+Amen+
LYRICS Part 1 This is the age of machinery A mechanical nightmare The wonderful world of technology Napalm, hydrogen bombs, biological warfare This is the 20th century But too much aggravation It's the age of insanity What has become of the green pleasant fields of Jerusalem Ain't got no ambition, I'm just disillusioned I'm a 20th century man but I don't wanna be here My mama said she can't understand me She can't see my motivation
OMG, I think the last time I heard this song was on the juke box in my high school cafeteria in 1972. Wow, I forgot all about it. Great tune, thanks for posting.
ray's ability to pinpoint a century and put it to music
is without peer
ronct -- you'd better stick with barry manilow, the monkeys, elton john and bobby goldsboro, oh please don't torture your simple little head with any aspiration that may induce another verbal fart among your betters
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
When they started putting out this kind of crap is when I lost faith in the Kinks. Like all great bands the best days of the Kinks was over except for the occasional gem by the end of the 60's. I hate this album almost as much as their latter 70's crap. Ray writes great lyrics but his music is a lot ot be desired and sound so dated now.
That is because their music is basic and easy to cover. The Kinks never developed into great musicians their gem was Ray was a great story teller not a great musical composer. Ray repaets his chords progressions over and over and redoes his own material over and over. I like the Kinks and they were infulencial in the 60's but they lost their edge and spunk by the end of the decade and folks were no longer buying their releases as in the past.
@ronct - You want easy music to cover? Try The Who, Led Zep and other threechord riff merchants....take that from a musician who has attempted to cover Kinks songs....sorry my friend but I suspect you don't play guitar or an instrument....
@ronct I couldn't disagree more! You think they weren't accomplished musicians? I suspect you probably haven't listened to even ten percent of their body of work and have little or no understanding of what you are talking about! Dave Davis is an incredible musician who Jimi Hendrix always creditied with inventing "heavy metal guitar" Ray has always been an absolute hero amongst musicians and songwriters alike, revered by those in the know. Village green was later and that is a true classic!
@ronct You claim that Kinks music is "basic and easy to cover". But most of their songs have at least 8-10 different chords in them, and many contain 14 or more. What instrument do you play? It is clear that you have not tried to play their songs yourself, or you would not make fatuous comments like this. The Kinks are one of the truly great groups, and their songs will be around for a very long time to come. Already their influence and importance are beginning to be recognised.
Muswell and Village green.... Lola powerman way ahead of it's time, the great age of great albums is long gone - kinks ruled ! i saw them twice in mid 80's - so many songs rip off parts from kinks and ray - they are the most happily cynical pranksters - my fav band of all time ,..their wit and intelligence makes the who and everybody else look like a complete joke ..
@blazehok Conservatives like a lot of thingsabout modernity, division of powers, democracy, constitutionalism, equality of the genders, modern science... and a lot more
I can't believe Gibtrickz's comment is the highest rated. Complaining about people arguing on the internet is sad enough, but complaining about people bringing political discussions into music discussions? Have you even listened to the Kinks? Most of their songs are socio-political commentary. In fact, thats true of most music worth listening to. How can it be discussed with out people arguing politics?
@100percentninja - I fully agree. Rock & roll music, and specifically the music of The Kinks, has traditionally been about politics and the social/economic injustice in our world. Sure, sometimes rock & roll is "I want rock all night and party every day" and there is nothing wrong with that. Many bands, like the Kinks, are looking to send a deeper message with their music. And bands with a message are needed more than ever to wake people up from their pop culture induced lethargic apathy...
@Libertine62 Call me a conspiracy nut, but I think the "lethargic apathy" you refer to is intentional (created by the powers-that-be in the music industry). Groups/Musicians with political messages (or messages of any kind...) in their songs are becoming very few and far between. Aside from recent bands like Rage against the Machine (now defunct) and System of a Down, I can't really think of any other examples of bands with a political message that get any large amount of airtime.
Muse is very political. There are others that aren't as big, too... like Middle Class Rut. It seemed like the economic crisis has heralded at least a partial return to political music. I think the kids are starting to realize there are real problems in the world and the commercial 'emo' and bubblegum-punk bullshit is dying out. I think to some extent, regardless of the media's preference for easy vapid music, they will try to cater to demand.
@EccentricSage I LOVE MC Rut, plus when I referred to the powers-that-be in the music industry, I meant that in relation to the fact that basically ALL media in the U.S. is now owned by only 4-5 companies. It is in their best interest to keep the "sheeple" numb in order to maintain status quo. Stupid consumers are good consumers! "All we are is just another brick in the wall" So to speak.
@Libertine62 who gives a crap about politics its amazing music,
everyone in the world seems to be deluded by politics,
just live your lives throught the beautiful music of what has to be the most under rated rock bands that were ever formed right? Yes! so rock on my friends.
@Libertine62 I disagree, bands "with a message" are the most annoying things in the world. Look at punk, is there anyone more obnoxious and tragically superficial than punk rockers? And what the fuck do musicians know about world politics anyway? Not much I'm guessing. And most of the Kinks songs were introverted, not political. They usually focused on themes like alienation, love, ect.
You are ether trolling or extremely bitter and stupid.
Your posts insinuate that music with a message = superficial. That is a contradiction to the very definitions of the word superficial. You admittedly are only guessing that musicians universally don't know anything about politics rather than actually looking into the matter. Any generalization that broad of such a diverse group is logically not possibly true.
I called punk rockers "tragically superficaial" because they are. I didnt say bands with a meassage are superficial, I dont even see how that makes sense. I said bands who try and incite political ideas with their songs often come off as being pretentious, overbearing and clueless.
@FuttBucker667 That's not what you said, but if that's what you meant, then ok.
I'd have to ask you to define Punk Rock for me, though. The way you talk about superficial bands pretending at being political makes me think of bands like Green Day... who are not really punk... just pretend to be. You realize 'punk' encompasses a broader scope of music than just the leather clad, spiky collared, tragically hip types, right? Pearl Jam are pretty non-superficial, for example.
@EccentricSage I'm talking about anyone who claims to follow "punk ideology" (whatever the fuck that entails) and goes around acting like a self-rightous douche, talking about how people are sheep who just go with the crowd, and being completely oblivious to the fact that theyre just as spineless and unoriginal as the "Miley Cyrus" scene they claim to hate so much. Thats why I call them tragically superficial, theyre trivial and shallow without knowing it.
Presidents, politicians, are puppets, musicians like these speak from the heart, elect musicians and artists to power, as long as they remain musicians and artists, their hearts are goooood!
Wouldn't work unless they have the education and tactical mind needed to lead a country. Having a good heart is not enough. I've met plenty of stupid and weak kindhearted people, and a strong willed idealists can do harm with the best intentions at heart.
what we have here is a classic Kinks moment from a classic Kinks LP and all you lot can do is indulge in playground name calling. Reminds me of the House Of Commons. I think Mr. Davies may have had something to say about this as well.
It seems no bloody one can listen to a bloody song without making a comment about politics, religion etc etc et bloodtyetcetera. Your only on here to listen to the music. Agree with Chairjockey1.
I hope you realize that this years Republican, and especially Tea Party wins virtually guarantee and easy victory for Obama and the Democrats in two years. The right wing power swing will peak in November and immediately begin to swing back the other way. That's just the way it goes.
Disregarding my own preconceptions in regards to the cyclical nature of American politics, I would far prefer any candidate, Democrat or Republican, to run on principle rather than take the most expedient path to power (which, in this particular cycle, just happen to be one and the same). Will their opponents return to prominence in two years? Perhaps, but as you said, that's the nature of the beast- the argument never ceases.
God Bless America, and may the best candidate win!
This is why we need to do away with the party system all together, and remove all private and corporate funding of campaigns to level the playing field and give the common voter a choice again. Currently we are only given a choice between the two candidates our corporate, religious, and special interest overlords choose for us.
I'm sick of the media treating politics like a sports game and I'm sick of the unwashed masses believing there is any real 'choice' being given.
@Slavestorms If you knew anything at all about the Kinks and Ray Davies, you'd know that Davies himself favors a strong welfare state, but is torn as it usually involves bureaucracy. So don't count on his songs to back up your political ideology, amigo.
@Dukegrievousangel Artists provide a reflection of the world around them. Sometimes it's distorted and sometimes it's clear. Other times it's some cun7 like Britney Spears telling people "trust our president"
I think the lyrics are as relevant now as they were 40 years ago. Do you think things have improved and if so how and for whom? 20,000 people will starve to death today with a suicide every 30 seconds.
As for a 'political ideology' you may want to tell me just which one you assume I hold.
@cazaleah2 You've got that right. These artists painted a picture 40 years ago and nothing has changed for the better. Things have sure gotten worse but we've all got flat screen tell lie visions and jail cell phones so we don't notice that the SS has been in control of our system all along.
Social Services, game theory, behavioral economics, self-selecting polls like voting and shopping and tax solidarity. Left right left stay where you are and keep doing what you were trained to do. Shop on!
I think that's because it's a timeless struggle. People who don't know much about world history always think what is happening to them due to political or social changes is happening for the first time when it's a struggle inherent to human existence.
I hate Bush and his religious right supporters too, but I don't really see why I should be more proud now than before. Obama is a week leader and two faced. He's just better mannered and well spoken, and favored by left-leaning mainstream news. Try alternative news sources like LINK and it's Democracy Now program and you'll get a broader perspective on what is going on in the world and in American politics. Look up 'Obama cracks down on government whistle blowers' for starters.
@ 9erfandex - just my opinion as I respect yours. However, check out the Kinks - Have A Cuppa Tea from Muswell Hillbillies to see how they perfectly combine English Vaudeville with American Shit-Kicking Country. I believe that matches up and maybe surpasses anything on Workingman's Dead.
Anyone who argues on here is coz they dont have the BALLS to say it to people in real life.. So any idiot who's bringing politics into the music needs to get a life.. ;)
@Gibtrickz Isnt dat wat ewe jus did, cojonesless politicallyincorrect nonmusic loner...sori i couldnt git here sooner, but our bus broke down...other than that Mrs Kennedy, how'd you like the parade?
what a splendid song-prophetic, I know the feeling more and more every day... the 21st is worse.
david111197 1 week ago
I prefer to be a 30th century man
HCfighter78 3 weeks ago
Hang the Bankers and the Politicians and support the Statesmen, like RON PAUL. Ron Paul 2012!!! Support FREEDOM!!!
HiawathaMohawk 1 month ago
@HiawathaMohawk I must say, everytime I think of this song I think of Ron Paul
QueenetBowie 1 month ago
Kinks miles ahead of Beatles and Rolling Stones. Thy are the real artists responding to their social context with acute sensitivity; genius creativity; supreme chops and spot on sensibility. Beatles and Stones a bit less and a bit more idol aura and snoggy romanticism based on their looks and personas. Of course Lennon on his own was closer to be a real artist but I think Davies' brothers have him beat. Dave Davies just released 1970s solo album "Hidden Treasures" I hear it's phenomenal.
JoanneLight 1 month ago
mmh i am rich now
chappati1 2 months ago
BRILLIANT SONG AND ALBUM.
denislaw8 2 months ago 2
The Kinks >>> The Beatles
minischmetterling 2 months ago
I was born in the same welfare state as Ray, but now we have less welfare and the same amount, if not more bureaucracy!
Are you serious bro?
TheKardiacKid 2 months ago
@TheKardiacKid Social Welfare goes against the most basic natural order, survival of the fittest. If I'm feeling generous I would like to choose where and to who my money will go (i.e buying a homeless man a sandwich, giving to a soup kitchen, a homeless shelter or whatever) not having the state do it for me
QueenetBowie 1 month ago
@QueenetBowie ABSOLUTELY!!! The problem with this is that welfare was never intended to make poor people well.... it is to make politicians relevant and wealthy. Welfare goes against the 10th amendment as does any federal social plan.. ie social security, medicare, medicade etc.... Those who are on welfare would find a way to survive without it.. instead, they are trained to be lazy and non - productive slime..
Biltospill 1 month ago
YouBoob needs to realize that their brilliant marketing of annoying, obligatory Glee ads is a FEEBLE attempt to target market towards Kinks Fans.
sweenykim 2 months ago
WOW, every time I hear this song I like it more than I did!!!!
tjlacrosse10 2 months ago
erm and get hot with me
LucinaLenauk77 2 months ago
Beautiful.
GregWatermann 2 months ago 2
Yep, this would be another on MY top 100 albums, along with two others, at least!
Been listening to this for 20yrs, Ray is such a great writer eh? Such truth while being tongue in cheek & thumbing their noses at everyone, laugh while you cry right?!?
ikeick 3 months ago in playlist ikeick's favorites 2
Another classic Kinks song!!!! I love it!
tjlacrosse10 3 months ago 3
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How have i lived 20 years of my life and have never heard this masterpiece.
QuicklyMrScott 3 months ago
lol sensual girl here just for you baby
loveilybabi97 3 months ago
GOD SAVE THE KINKS
chipzigrossi 4 months ago 2
muswell hillbillies was one of the first concept albums. it's a brilliant work.
captainstab2003 4 months ago
Great song!
Near the end.. Ray creates Punk Rock...
Rodel757 4 months ago 4
Ray Davies is the real deal. No pretensions. Absolutely excellent.
duncanstpt 5 months ago 4
a Masterpiece, and a rock one !
brunop541 5 months ago
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In my opinion one of the best songs EVER. pure genius and rock 'n' roll.
gioviz87 6 months ago
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gioviz87 6 months ago
I can remember schoolmates arguing stones vs/ beatles. I stood by Ray Davies and the band and STILL DO! Ray Davies is a genius. WJW
TheWilliam916 6 months ago 20
the best kinks album
TheTaterman83 6 months ago 5
@TheTaterman83 I agree. It's a masterpiece. Great songs and performances, and some of Dave's best guitar - shame he didn't do any more slide guitar after this, because he was really smokin' on this album.
chookiechooks 5 months ago
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Great song! I like it! Thumb up and very pleased! I just heard this song 20 times...
huxhardy 6 months ago
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huxhardy 6 months ago
i prefer to be a 20th century man...than a 21th century man....
and im a fuckin 21th century man,what a lame of generation
LIBERTINEPARANOIC 6 months ago 28
@LIBERTINEPARANOIC early man walk away as modern man took control, our minds were all the same to conquer was his goal, so he built this great empire and slaughtered his own kind, he died a confused man, killed himself with his own mind. - bad religion. Please explain how this civilization is any different than those before it? Man and animal are the same, get use to it or get out. Its naive to think mankind can maintain PEACE now or ever. (the strong survive)
Biltospill 1 month ago
@LIBERTINEPARANOIC i actually do enjoy being a 21st century man, although there are the idiots like you that make us look bad coming out of the twenty-ferth century i like to think there are more than enough people that can teeter the totter from apathy to boredom and boredom to action given the right circumstances, and its that hope as well as modern luxury that keeps me from the knife
DeBoner13 3 weeks ago
@DeBoner13 haha, keep dreaming bro, this generation sucks and you know it
LIBERTINEPARANOIC 3 weeks ago
Wow so big comments here
saske96 6 months ago
It's music. Most groups didn't begin as students that bumped into each other at a MENSA convention & decided to discuss world politics & bang became music gods. Why would anyone follow actors, athletes, stars. They're famous & rich-so they must have the answers.Dems., Reps.& other parties point fingers @ each other-it's music. Here in America we are lucky enough to have a government that tells you what you need to know, learn, like, accept & believe in-I'm from the government-I'm here to help
fritzmerde 6 months ago
It's a shame people of the 21st century can't relate to those of the 20th. Just another "step for mankind" I guess. Even Germans didn't see the writing on the wall. Mob mentality in revolution is coming soon with ability to communicate 'en mass, by the media, to a neighborhood near you. If there is a God, may he protect me from his believers that believe their belief is "the one"!!!!!!!!!!!!
c7thcavalry 6 months ago
Have enjoyed the discussion , have a listen to Ray Davies, Vietnam cowboys.
Zip up your pants in the White house, nobody said it would last forever.
Empty factories in Cleveland, meanwhile theyre making movies in Vietnam.
RD a writer well ahead of his time.Enjoy
dave, Shangrila England
davlinful 6 months ago in playlist Clasic rock, and a little bit a punk
If I wanted to listen to some of the best music ever written and performed, I'd listen to the Kinks!
FreePowerPunk 7 months ago
If I wanted to listen to political shit I'd listen to Alex Jones.
FreePowerPunk 7 months ago
If I wanted to listen to political shit I'd watch CNN..Don't want to hear it in my music
travisthmpsn 7 months ago
@travisthmpsn yeah and how are normal people supposed to get their views heard on CNN??? Music is a way for anyone to express what they think!
XCat1993X 6 months ago
@travisthmpsn
Seriously? Go listen to teen pop music then.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
...Let's git some of that liberty back.....Ron Paul 2012
vachief 7 months ago
@vachief
I have to say, I don't agree with him on everything, but he's one of the few politicians who's in it because of civic pride and patriotism and seems to have the best intentions. I wouldn't be opposed to a term of him. Cross our fingers and hope the office doesn't corrupt him. But a guy who's stood his ground through as much ridicule from both the mainstream and his own party and STILL stands his ground is a surer bet than these big business cronies and guys with no experience.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage ....Yeah.....Ron understands the role of government in a constitutional republic, my belief is that he is well aware of the "good ole boy" club, he's been there awhile and he's on to them. You will never here people like Sarah Palin, Michelle Bachmann, Newt, Mitt or any of the others bring up the subject of the Fed.....because they are frightened by the power of the banks in this country.
vachief 6 months ago
@vachief
I could see Sarah and Bachmann go for it, but not out of any understanding of our rights or constitution. I could see them using it as a gimmick to try get votes from Ron Paul supporters. All the while they'd reassure the Fed and their wealthy constituents that they don't really mean it. Sign up for the Republican propaganda news list 'Town Hall' to see just how far these types go to garner support. Caution: it might make you violently ill at times.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage ....Yeah...I'll take a look at it. Sarah and Michelle will never mention the Fed, both of them are commited Zionists and Michelle is Jewish, sometimes it seems as though Sarah just wishes she was. lol
vachief 6 months ago
@EccentricSage
obama is a much bigger threat than republican fears u may have.... by the way, last time i checked, rich people create jobs,,, not the democrats , liberals, or, moonbats...another liberal propaganda idea is that only the evil republicans are Rich,,,,every democrat in the congress and senate are just eeking by on meager salaries ,,,,,,,, better tax those corporate jets and nasty yachts...
nikon052952 6 months ago
@nikon052952
Are you fucking retarded? I never said I was a Liberal nor did I say I hate all republicans. Work on your reading comprehension. THEN we'll talk.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage
*sigh* Sorry, I shouldn't have lost my temper, but I am so sick of people assuming they know where I stand and preaching to me about 'superior republican economics' which is bullshit, too. Both sides are fucked. Yes, we need job creation, but not at the cost of worker's rights. Some on the right want us to be reduced to the working conditions and living standards of China while they give tax cuts and free money to the top 1%.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
weeew, mick avory's drumkit seems to come from outter space!!
stuckinthestation 7 months ago
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Hey guys this is a great song, i was wondering if you guys could go to my page and listen to my new songs and tell me what you think! thanks Everyone its a new band named Communication Eruption!
ComunicationEruption 7 months ago
The Judgement number 20 shoot to kill gammon gammon cupid!
divisorplot 7 months ago
nots much change in the21st.century either!
babylonbob 8 months ago
@babylonbob Exactly. That's exactly why the Kinks are still very relevant today.
TheKardiacKid 7 months ago
All this new-fangled high-tech and new science stuff hasn't led us to the Promised Land. Modern more abstract expression as manifested in art, music, literature, communicates less to us. That's what I get out of this song. And all embedded in an album about the false promises of urban renewal. It's brilliant.
sbarr10 8 months ago in playlist Kinks - the 1970's 5
This song is still relevant 40 years later. Think about it kids!
claygar310 8 months ago 6
Now this is what I call rock n roll. Steady beat, shouting it out with no need for smoke bombs, high heels or masturbating guitar solos. Just wind it up and rock it out. -Gets me moving ...like it!
thestoryplease 8 months ago 2
Underrated group.
8woldy8 8 months ago 4
I don't know the twentieth century wasn't too bad at the end were skrewed now!
skyehoyt1971 9 months ago 3
Lyrical legend...
modette69er 9 months ago 4
The Kinks are amazing. They're either rocking your ass off or shoving the reality of class society in your face.
BobBerkeley 9 months ago 43
@BobBerkeley or...BOTH!
ectowle 4 months ago
@BobBerkeley or both
spoonce 3 months ago
basic and easy to cover? Yeah, if you don't try to play like Dave and sing like Ray, or reproduce the perfect rhythm section performance, or John Gosling's playing.
aprilglaspieable 9 months ago 3
best band EVER
eddiefelger 9 months ago 2
LYRICS Part 4
My mama says she can't understand me
She can't see my motivation
Ain't got no security
I'm a 20th century man but I don't wanna be here
This is the 20th century
But too much aggravation
This is the edge of insanity
I'm a 20th century man but I don't wanna be here
Robert48911 9 months ago
omg you ppl make me laugh, your so wrong, well i guess you either get it or you dont........
Laxton08 9 months ago
Robert48911 9 months ago
This is also a superb one. Superb lyrics. I love the Kinks also because they are original in their creations.
rizon961 9 months ago
LYRICS Part 2
Just give me some security
I'm a paranoid schizoid product of the 20th century
You keep all your smart modern writers
Give me William Shakespeare
You keep all your smart modern painters
I'll take Rembrandt, Titian, Da Vinci and Gainsborough
Girl we gotta get out of here
We gotta find a solution
I'm a 20th century man but I don't want to die here
Robert48911 9 months ago 2
Thanks man, so many utter squares controling things now, quite stiff and unnatural, disordered as their squareness reigns, no roundness of the heart remains, until death do we part unto God forever. Amen+Amen+Amen+
brokkenstar 9 months ago
I was born in a welfare state
Ruled by bureaucracy
Controlled by civil servants
And people dressed in grey
Got no privacy, got no liberty
Cos the twentieth century people
Took it all away from me.
wtfftwo0oya 9 months ago 8
Robert48911 9 months ago
I love this song, but i ain't doin shit due to it
Justen1980 10 months ago
I'm a Paranoid schizoid Product of the 20th Century ,.... and i like it - i gotta getta' here ...
GreenhouseEffectGE 10 months ago
The picture at about 1:51 provides me with endless amusement.
IdiocyKills 10 months ago 2
My favorite Kinks song.
8woldy8 10 months ago
OMG, I think the last time I heard this song was on the juke box in my high school cafeteria in 1972. Wow, I forgot all about it. Great tune, thanks for posting.
Snagglefratz 10 months ago 2
ray's ability to pinpoint a century and put it to music
is without peer
ronct -- you'd better stick with barry manilow, the monkeys, elton john and bobby goldsboro, oh please don't torture your simple little head with any aspiration that may induce another verbal fart among your betters
joerexlily 10 months ago 3
Great underrated Kinks song.
jaemel1 10 months ago 23
This comment has received too many negative votes show
When they started putting out this kind of crap is when I lost faith in the Kinks. Like all great bands the best days of the Kinks was over except for the occasional gem by the end of the 60's. I hate this album almost as much as their latter 70's crap. Ray writes great lyrics but his music is a lot ot be desired and sound so dated now.
ronct 10 months ago
@ronct That why everyone and their brother still covers them?
wildcatter63 10 months ago
@wildcatter63
That is because their music is basic and easy to cover. The Kinks never developed into great musicians their gem was Ray was a great story teller not a great musical composer. Ray repaets his chords progressions over and over and redoes his own material over and over. I like the Kinks and they were infulencial in the 60's but they lost their edge and spunk by the end of the decade and folks were no longer buying their releases as in the past.
ronct 9 months ago
@ronct - You want easy music to cover? Try The Who, Led Zep and other threechord riff merchants....take that from a musician who has attempted to cover Kinks songs....sorry my friend but I suspect you don't play guitar or an instrument....
johnnybsteelriff 9 months ago 2
@johnnybsteelriff Hear hear!!! Unbelievable the stuff people spout.
jwattie 9 months ago
@ronct I couldn't disagree more! You think they weren't accomplished musicians? I suspect you probably haven't listened to even ten percent of their body of work and have little or no understanding of what you are talking about! Dave Davis is an incredible musician who Jimi Hendrix always creditied with inventing "heavy metal guitar" Ray has always been an absolute hero amongst musicians and songwriters alike, revered by those in the know. Village green was later and that is a true classic!
jwattie 9 months ago
@ronct You claim that Kinks music is "basic and easy to cover". But most of their songs have at least 8-10 different chords in them, and many contain 14 or more. What instrument do you play? It is clear that you have not tried to play their songs yourself, or you would not make fatuous comments like this. The Kinks are one of the truly great groups, and their songs will be around for a very long time to come. Already their influence and importance are beginning to be recognised.
Galericulus 9 months ago 2
@ronct they came out with two of their greatest albums towards the end of the 60's
MikeyGLFC 9 months ago
Beautiful drum groove and sound.....
chopluey 10 months ago 4
What kind of soulless shell of a person must you be to press the 'dislike' button on a song such as this?
genuinelyaperson 11 months ago 4
Muswell and Village green.... Lola powerman way ahead of it's time, the great age of great albums is long gone - kinks ruled ! i saw them twice in mid 80's - so many songs rip off parts from kinks and ray - they are the most happily cynical pranksters - my fav band of all time ,..their wit and intelligence makes the who and everybody else look like a complete joke ..
GreenhouseEffectGE 11 months ago
The original hipsters.
jman9082 11 months ago
great..everything they did was anti-Beatle..screw Mc-Len... great music by Davies...bluejay007@ yahoo
bluejay4480 11 months ago
Automatic Weapons are fine. It's the people that are the issue.
TheSeeker0131 11 months ago
Should conservative like this song?
The only thing today's self professed conservatives like about modernity is automatic weapons.
blazehok 11 months ago
@blazehok Conservatives like a lot of thingsabout modernity, division of powers, democracy, constitutionalism, equality of the genders, modern science... and a lot more
TheProgressistViewer 11 months ago
John, did you feed the dog and let out the cat? Don't forget to set the alarm --I have to be at work early tomorrow. Thanks
califbozo 1 year ago
Still waiting for another band to come along and be as good as The Kinks...guess I'll just get tired of waiting.
toomuchrose 1 year ago 2
The Kinks have one of Rock's greatest sense of humor!
dhh02192 1 year ago
@dhh02192
Yes, I agree - It's their humor of Life!!!
They're still standing on solid ground... I like that old old fashioned english kind of humor... Black or white... - no difference... 8-)
Slowbuddy 1 year ago
watch?v=46CNp89_52Y
fondoogle 1 year ago
Punk rock (and rock in general) is right wing.
Johnny Ramone said so.
VirtualInsanity91 1 year ago
@VirtualInsanity91 i like to think most rock and roll doesn't have a political agenda
stopmakingeyesatme1 1 year ago 6
wow i SERIOUSLY cant believe people are commenting about stupid shit on such an AMAZING band's song… get a life people REALLY!!!
liveattacklive 1 year ago
listen to Beatfarmers version of this
fajadody 1 year ago
I can't believe Gibtrickz's comment is the highest rated. Complaining about people arguing on the internet is sad enough, but complaining about people bringing political discussions into music discussions? Have you even listened to the Kinks? Most of their songs are socio-political commentary. In fact, thats true of most music worth listening to. How can it be discussed with out people arguing politics?
100percentninja 1 year ago 72
@100percentninja - I fully agree. Rock & roll music, and specifically the music of The Kinks, has traditionally been about politics and the social/economic injustice in our world. Sure, sometimes rock & roll is "I want rock all night and party every day" and there is nothing wrong with that. Many bands, like the Kinks, are looking to send a deeper message with their music. And bands with a message are needed more than ever to wake people up from their pop culture induced lethargic apathy...
Libertine62 1 year ago 47
@Libertine62 Call me a conspiracy nut, but I think the "lethargic apathy" you refer to is intentional (created by the powers-that-be in the music industry). Groups/Musicians with political messages (or messages of any kind...) in their songs are becoming very few and far between. Aside from recent bands like Rage against the Machine (now defunct) and System of a Down, I can't really think of any other examples of bands with a political message that get any large amount of airtime.
nightmathzombieethan 11 months ago 2
@nightmathzombieethan agreed, and well put.
RX7Qball 8 months ago
@nightmathzombieethan
Muse is very political. There are others that aren't as big, too... like Middle Class Rut. It seemed like the economic crisis has heralded at least a partial return to political music. I think the kids are starting to realize there are real problems in the world and the commercial 'emo' and bubblegum-punk bullshit is dying out. I think to some extent, regardless of the media's preference for easy vapid music, they will try to cater to demand.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage I LOVE MC Rut, plus when I referred to the powers-that-be in the music industry, I meant that in relation to the fact that basically ALL media in the U.S. is now owned by only 4-5 companies. It is in their best interest to keep the "sheeple" numb in order to maintain status quo. Stupid consumers are good consumers! "All we are is just another brick in the wall" So to speak.
nightmathzombieethan 6 months ago
@Libertine62 who gives a crap about politics its amazing music,
everyone in the world seems to be deluded by politics,
just live your lives throught the beautiful music of what has to be the most under rated rock bands that were ever formed right? Yes! so rock on my friends.
lifes for living not for moaning about politics.
peace and goodbye :)
amylouisetyrrell 10 months ago
@Libertine62 I disagree, bands "with a message" are the most annoying things in the world. Look at punk, is there anyone more obnoxious and tragically superficial than punk rockers? And what the fuck do musicians know about world politics anyway? Not much I'm guessing. And most of the Kinks songs were introverted, not political. They usually focused on themes like alienation, love, ect.
FuttBucker667 8 months ago
@FuttBucker667 bands with a message: low class
hedonistic bands: middle class
soft/artsy bands: high class
moderjoker 7 months ago
@moderjoker Huh...
FuttBucker667 7 months ago
@FuttBucker667 are you american or what?
moderjoker 7 months ago
@moderjoker Huh...
FuttBucker667 7 months ago
@moderjoker ur lame gtfo
TheAlpheus3 7 months ago
@FuttBucker667
You are ether trolling or extremely bitter and stupid.
Your posts insinuate that music with a message = superficial. That is a contradiction to the very definitions of the word superficial. You admittedly are only guessing that musicians universally don't know anything about politics rather than actually looking into the matter. Any generalization that broad of such a diverse group is logically not possibly true.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage You cant read
I called punk rockers "tragically superficaial" because they are. I didnt say bands with a meassage are superficial, I dont even see how that makes sense. I said bands who try and incite political ideas with their songs often come off as being pretentious, overbearing and clueless.
FuttBucker667 6 months ago
@FuttBucker667 That's not what you said, but if that's what you meant, then ok.
I'd have to ask you to define Punk Rock for me, though. The way you talk about superficial bands pretending at being political makes me think of bands like Green Day... who are not really punk... just pretend to be. You realize 'punk' encompasses a broader scope of music than just the leather clad, spiky collared, tragically hip types, right? Pearl Jam are pretty non-superficial, for example.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@EccentricSage I'm talking about anyone who claims to follow "punk ideology" (whatever the fuck that entails) and goes around acting like a self-rightous douche, talking about how people are sheep who just go with the crowd, and being completely oblivious to the fact that theyre just as spineless and unoriginal as the "Miley Cyrus" scene they claim to hate so much. Thats why I call them tragically superficial, theyre trivial and shallow without knowing it.
FuttBucker667 6 months ago
@100percentninja i have a feeeling you began studying ninjitsu at a much later age; I began at 9 years old, sir.
Justen1980 9 months ago
@100percentninja noone is going to argue with a 100% Ninja
PrimalStones 8 months ago
Does anybody think that 20st Century Boy was Marc Bolan's version of this song? Even the rhythm and some chord changes are the same!
Reint25 1 year ago
Why, so many publicity on yourtube ??
Oliver3863 1 year ago
@Oliver3863
Because we need a break from arguing about Justin Beiber and Lady GaGa. Clearly.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
america land of the cheated home of the unemployed..
vaneglorius 1 year ago
Man I looove this song!
achefefreitas 1 year ago
superb track,great album,3rd behind village green & aurthur &......albums.super songwriter,super band!
plonkgenius72 1 year ago
Best Band ever... :-)
Slowbuddy 1 year ago
@Slowbuddy well said
callaaj1983 1 year ago
some of the best music in history was political, period. It is what it is.
TheLmori3 1 year ago
the kinks totally ripped this riff off from the who...great lyrics though
takemeHOME102493 1 year ago
@takemeHOME102493 Which one? I am straining to hear it!
Kipfan410 1 year ago
@Kipfan410 Won't Get Fooled Again
takemeHOME102493 1 year ago
@takemeHOME102493 I can totally hear it now! That bass and guitar! Thanks!
Kipfan410 1 year ago
Presidents, politicians, are puppets, musicians like these speak from the heart, elect musicians and artists to power, as long as they remain musicians and artists, their hearts are goooood!
somekindonut 1 year ago
@somekindonut
Wouldn't work unless they have the education and tactical mind needed to lead a country. Having a good heart is not enough. I've met plenty of stupid and weak kindhearted people, and a strong willed idealists can do harm with the best intentions at heart.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
oasis rock n roll star
dreck93 1 year ago
what we have here is a classic Kinks moment from a classic Kinks LP and all you lot can do is indulge in playground name calling. Reminds me of the House Of Commons. I think Mr. Davies may have had something to say about this as well.
thealbionbands 1 year ago
Ill second that person!!!!!!!!!! ;)
olseedog 1 year ago
The Kinks are the Greatest Rock 'N Roll band.... EVER!
JQOlson53 1 year ago
im a 20th century man but i dont wanna b here...
wyteboybb 1 year ago
Another interesting reaction to Big Pink.
CurtisMateer 1 year ago
It seems no bloody one can listen to a bloody song without making a comment about politics, religion etc etc et bloodtyetcetera. Your only on here to listen to the music. Agree with Chairjockey1.
Kingmick58 1 year ago
@Kingmick58...... Thanx, Kingmick58.
chairjockey1 1 year ago
A totally bitchin song!! I am wondering....why are there people here arguing politics?
chairjockey1 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Im forming a 60's style band like The Animals, The Kinks, and The Beatles. And I'm trying to think of a name for it... Anyone got any suggestions???
wales2k4eva 1 year ago
Is that The Gate pub near Ally Pally??
lostmyshoes80 1 year ago
Watch your back, welfare state.
NOVEMBER IS COMING.
CarcharodonMeg 1 year ago
@CarcharodonMeg
I hope you realize that this years Republican, and especially Tea Party wins virtually guarantee and easy victory for Obama and the Democrats in two years. The right wing power swing will peak in November and immediately begin to swing back the other way. That's just the way it goes.
bkirk918 1 year ago
@bkirk918
Disregarding my own preconceptions in regards to the cyclical nature of American politics, I would far prefer any candidate, Democrat or Republican, to run on principle rather than take the most expedient path to power (which, in this particular cycle, just happen to be one and the same). Will their opponents return to prominence in two years? Perhaps, but as you said, that's the nature of the beast- the argument never ceases.
God Bless America, and may the best candidate win!
CarcharodonMeg 1 year ago
@CarcharodonMeg
This is why we need to do away with the party system all together, and remove all private and corporate funding of campaigns to level the playing field and give the common voter a choice again. Currently we are only given a choice between the two candidates our corporate, religious, and special interest overlords choose for us.
I'm sick of the media treating politics like a sports game and I'm sick of the unwashed masses believing there is any real 'choice' being given.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
@CarcharodonMeg I was born in a welfare state
Ruled by bureaucracy
Controlled by civil servants
And people dressed in grey
Got no privacy got no liberty
Cos the twentieth century people
Took it all away from me
What were these artists trying to say about participatory CULTural transformation?
"We are not slaves because masters exist, masters exist because we elect to remain slaves." Guy Debord, "Society of the Spectacle"
Think about that the next time you line up to 'Elect' a new master
Slavestorms 1 year ago
@Slavestorms If you knew anything at all about the Kinks and Ray Davies, you'd know that Davies himself favors a strong welfare state, but is torn as it usually involves bureaucracy. So don't count on his songs to back up your political ideology, amigo.
Dukegrievousangel 1 year ago 2
@Dukegrievousangel Artists provide a reflection of the world around them. Sometimes it's distorted and sometimes it's clear. Other times it's some cun7 like Britney Spears telling people "trust our president"
I think the lyrics are as relevant now as they were 40 years ago. Do you think things have improved and if so how and for whom? 20,000 people will starve to death today with a suicide every 30 seconds.
As for a 'political ideology' you may want to tell me just which one you assume I hold.
Slavestorms 1 year ago
@Slavestorms - u cud just change that line to 21st century people took it all away from me, n well it fits wi 2day
cazaleah2 1 year ago
@cazaleah2 You've got that right. These artists painted a picture 40 years ago and nothing has changed for the better. Things have sure gotten worse but we've all got flat screen tell lie visions and jail cell phones so we don't notice that the SS has been in control of our system all along.
Social Services, game theory, behavioral economics, self-selecting polls like voting and shopping and tax solidarity. Left right left stay where you are and keep doing what you were trained to do. Shop on!
Slavestorms 1 year ago 4
@cazaleah2
I think that's because it's a timeless struggle. People who don't know much about world history always think what is happening to them due to political or social changes is happening for the first time when it's a struggle inherent to human existence.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
after 8 yrs of fucking bush and the neo nut republicans finally proud to be american
934johno 1 year ago
@934johno
I hate Bush and his religious right supporters too, but I don't really see why I should be more proud now than before. Obama is a week leader and two faced. He's just better mannered and well spoken, and favored by left-leaning mainstream news. Try alternative news sources like LINK and it's Democracy Now program and you'll get a broader perspective on what is going on in the world and in American politics. Look up 'Obama cracks down on government whistle blowers' for starters.
EccentricSage 6 months ago
Legendary.
Frostich1 1 year ago
EASY RELIGONS FOR DUMMIES
NORTH OUR FATHER
SOUTH WHO ART IN HEAVEN
EAST OUR KINGDOM COME
WEST WE WILL BE DONE..HEAVEN ON EARTH
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH IS GOOD OVER EVIL REIGNING POWER FOR ALL OF OUR CHILDREN TO COME
WHERE IS YOUR ALLEGANCE..
I ASK YOU THIS QUESTION ONE MORE TIME
TRANSLATE WORLDWIDE LANGUAGES AND RELIGIONS
soulfoodmarketing 1 year ago
@soulfoodmarketing damn religion get out good music
acciesfan8 1 year ago
great song
shanehenning26 1 year ago
@ 9erfandex - just my opinion as I respect yours. However, check out the Kinks - Have A Cuppa Tea from Muswell Hillbillies to see how they perfectly combine English Vaudeville with American Shit-Kicking Country. I believe that matches up and maybe surpasses anything on Workingman's Dead.
AJB42154 1 year ago
Here's to all those that didn't [and did] die there.
elpatoymio 1 year ago
the kinks rock
shanehenning26 1 year ago
Anyone who argues on here is coz they dont have the BALLS to say it to people in real life.. So any idiot who's bringing politics into the music needs to get a life.. ;)
Gibtrickz 1 year ago 9
@Gibtrickz Isnt dat wat ewe jus did, cojonesless politicallyincorrect nonmusic loner...sori i couldnt git here sooner, but our bus broke down...other than that Mrs Kennedy, how'd you like the parade?
artypee 1 year ago