The Meaning Behind The Song: O Superman (For Massenet) by Laurie Anderson
Laurie Anderson’s iconic song “O Superman (For Massenet)” was released in 1981 and remains an influential work in the electronic and avant-garde music world. Anderson, a performance artist with a background in visual art, poetry, and music, created a masterpiece that is more than just a song. It’s a complex piece that has been interpreted in different ways and continues to inspire artists and listeners to this day.
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The Story Behind the Song
The origins of “O Superman (For Massenet)” can be traced back to an improvisation session that Anderson had with her vocal harmonizer, a device that helps singers create multiple layers of voices. She played with the device until she came up with a vocal phrase that sounded like a robot or an alien voice saying “ha ha ha ha” in a repetitive manner. Intrigued by the sound, she built a song around it.
At the time, Anderson was interested in exploring the relationship between humans and technology. She was inspired by the science fiction genre, particularly the idea of communication with extraterrestrial beings. She also drew from her personal experiences, including her father’s death and her mother’s illness, to create a haunting narrative.
The Meaning of the Lyrics
The lyrics of “O Superman (For Massenet)” are enigmatic and poetic, but they also convey a sense of urgency and confusion. The song begins with the repetition of the phrase “O Superman” and gradually introduces different themes and characters.
One of the central figures in the song is “Mom and Dad,” who represent the traditional family structure. The narrator addresses them directly, asking for their advice and guidance. However, their responses are cryptic and lack relevance to the narrator’s concerns.
Another important character is “the hand that takes,” which could symbolize death or an oppressive force. The narrator is unnerved by the hand’s power and wonders what it wants from her.
The song also makes references to political themes, such as the Iran hostage crisis and the Cold War. The line “Here come the planes, they’re American planes” alludes to the American military intervention in Iran, while the line “We’re all in a giant hologram” suggests the possibility of living in a world of illusions and propaganda.
The Musical Accompaniment
The music of “O Superman (For Massenet)” is as complex as its lyrics. The song is built on a repetitive electronic beat and features layers of vocal harmonies and spoken-word passages. Anderson’s voice is distorted and manipulated to create a robotic effect, which adds to the song’s otherworldly quality.
The song also includes samples of arias from Jules Massenet’s opera “Cléopâtre,” which Anderson describes as “borrowing these sounds from a distant canon of sounds.” The inclusion of classical music in an electronic song was unusual at the time and inspired other artists to experiment with different genres.
The Legacy of “O Superman (For Massenet)”
“O Superman (For Massenet)” was a groundbreaking song that challenged the conventions of popular music. It was a surprise hit in the UK, reaching number two on the charts and introducing Anderson to a wider audience. The song also received critical acclaim and was featured in the museum of Modern Art’s “‘Looking at Music’ series.
The influence of “O Superman (For Massenet)” can be felt in many different fields. It has inspired musicians, filmmakers, and visual artists to experiment with new techniques and explore unconventional themes. Anderson’s use of repetition, distortion, and sampling has become a staple in electronic music. Her interdisciplinary approach to art has also influenced a new generation of performance artists.
FAQs
What was the inspiration behind “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
Anderson was interested in exploring the relationship between humans and technology and drew inspiration from her own experiences, including her father’s death and her mother’s illness. She was also influenced by science fiction and the idea of communication with extraterrestrial beings.
What is the meaning of the lyrics in “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
The lyrics are enigmatic and poetic, but they convey a sense of urgency and confusion. The song explores themes of family, death, political strife, and illusion.
What is the significance of the vocal harmonizer in the song?
The vocal harmonizer helped Anderson create multiple layers of her voice and allowed her to manipulate it in different ways. The resulting robotic effect adds to the song’s otherworldly quality and creates a sense of detachment.
What role does classical music play in “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
The song features samples of arias from Jules Massenet’s opera “Cléopâtre.” Anderson describes it as “borrowing these sounds from a distant canon of sounds” and using them to create contrast with the electronic beat.
How did “O Superman (For Massenet)” impact popular music?
The song was a groundbreaking work that challenged the conventions of popular music. Its use of repetition, distortion, and sampling inspired other musicians to experiment with new techniques and genres.
What is performance art?
Performance art is a genre of art that involves live performances by artists. It can be interdisciplinary, incorporating elements of music, dance, theater, and visual art.
What other works has Laurie Anderson created?
Anderson has released a number of influential albums, including “Big Science,” “Strange Angels,” and “Homeland.” She has also created several performance art pieces, such as “United States” and “The Nerve Bible.”
How has “O Superman (For Massenet)” influenced other artists?
The song has inspired musicians, filmmakers, and visual artists to experiment with new techniques and explore unconventional themes. Anderson’s interdisciplinary approach to art has also influenced a new generation of performance artists.
What was the reception to “O Superman (For Massenet)” when it was first released?
The song was a surprise hit in the UK and reached number two on the charts. It was also critically acclaimed and featured in the Museum of Modern Art’s “Looking at Music” series.
What techniques did Anderson use to create the music in “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
Anderson used a variety of techniques, including sampling, repetition, and vocal distortion. She also incorporated classical music and electronic beats to create contrast.
What political themes are present in “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
The song alludes to the Iran hostage crisis and the Cold War. The line “Here come the planes, they’re American planes” refers to the American military intervention in Iran, while the line “We’re all in a giant hologram” suggests the possibility of living in a world of illusions and propaganda.
How does “O Superman (For Massenet)” reflect Anderson’s artistic approach?
The song is a prime example of Anderson’s interdisciplinary approach to art, as it combines different elements of music, visual art, and performance art. It also explores complex themes and challenges conventional narratives.
What is the legacy of “O Superman (For Massenet)”?
The song has had a lasting impact on music and art, inspiring other artists to experiment with new techniques and explore unconventional themes. It also introduced Laurie Anderson to a wider audience and led to critical acclaim and commercial success.
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