Everybody Wants To Rule The World Meaning
The song “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears for Fears is one of the most iconic hits of the 1980s. This timeless classic, released on March 22, 1985, has continued to resonate with audiences around the world. The song’s lyrics explore themes of power, control, and the constant struggle for dominance, which is something that still feels relevant today. It’s no wonder that people from all walks of life can relate to the message in the song. The phrase “everybody wants to rule the world” captures the desire for control that exists in human nature.
What is the message in Everybody Wants to Rule the World?
The message of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is deeply tied to the complex nature of power. The song’s lyrics focus on the idea that everyone, in one way or another, seeks control and influence over their surroundings. However, as Roland Orzabal, one of the writers of the song, explains, it’s also about the consequences of that pursuit. Power can corrupt, and the quest to “rule the world” often leads to conflict, turmoil, and even destruction.
The lines “It’s my own design, it’s my own remorse” speak to the feeling of regret that can come with trying to gain power at all costs. It highlights the realization that seeking control doesn’t always lead to happiness. Rather, it often creates personal and societal issues. The song subtly warns listeners that while the allure of power can be strong, its pursuit may lead to regret.
When did the song Everybody Wants to Rule the World come out?
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” was released by Tears for Fears on March 22, 1985. It was the third single from their highly successful album, Songs from the Big Chair, which also featured other hits like “Shout” and “Head Over Heels”. The song quickly rose to the top of the charts, becoming a massive hit not just in the UK but also globally. In fact, it peaked at number one in the US, Canada, and New Zealand. Its catchy beat, meaningful lyrics, and synth-heavy sound made it a defining track of the new wave and synth-pop movements of the ’80s.
What was Tears for Fears’ biggest hit?
While “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is arguably one of the most recognizable songs from Tears for Fears, it is often debated whether it’s their biggest hit. Other tracks from their album Songs from the Big Chair like “Shout” were also incredibly successful. However, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” stands out because it reached number one in multiple countries and is still widely listened to and covered by other artists today. It also won Best Single at the 1986 Brit Awards, solidifying its place in music history.
How old was Tears for Fears in 1985?
Tears for Fears was formed by Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith in 1981. By the time “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” was released in 1985, they were both in their early twenties. Orzabal was 23 years old and Smith was 24.
Despite their youth, they managed to write music that spoke to a global audience, dealing with themes far beyond their years, including politics, power struggles, and emotional trauma.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World Meaning in Pop Culture
Over the years, the meaning of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” has found its way into many aspects of pop culture. The song has been used in countless movies and TV shows because of its enduring message and captivating melody. One of the more recent uses was a cover by Lorde, which was featured on the Hunger Games: Catching Fire soundtrack. Lorde’s version was haunting and slow, adding a new layer of meaning to the song, aligning it with the themes of control and rebellion in the movie.
The song also made an appearance in Despicable Me, a wildly popular animated movie. The movie’s playful use of the song shows just how versatile the message is — it can be serious, but it can also be used in a fun, lighthearted context.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World lyrics: A Deeper Look
The lyrics of “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” are simple, but they carry a lot of weight. The recurring line “Everybody wants to rule the world” is powerful because it encapsulates a universal desire. The desire to control, to have power, and to be in charge are themes that anyone can relate to, whether on a global scale or in personal relationships.
The song starts with the lines “Welcome to your life, there’s no turning back”, which suggest that once we engage in the quest for power, there’s no escaping the consequences. Throughout the song, Orzabal and Smith sing about the illusion of control and the sacrifices made in its pursuit. It’s a warning, disguised in an upbeat, danceable melody, that the chase for power comes with a cost.
Tears for Fears – Everybody Wants to Rule the World banned?
There is a common misconception that “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” was banned at some point. While this isn’t true, the song’s political undertones and the fact that it was released during the Cold War led to some discussions about its content. The lyrics, which reference global tensions and the desire for dominance, resonated with the political climate of the time, but the song was never officially banned.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World in Movies and Television
The song has made several appearances in movies and TV shows throughout the years. Its inclusion in Despicable Me introduced the song to a new generation of listeners, showing that its appeal is timeless. It has also been used in shows like Mr. Robot, where it played during key moments that involved power struggles and manipulation.
Moreover, Lorde’s cover for The Hunger Games: Catching Fire added a new level of meaning to the song. Her version is darker, more subdued, and perfectly aligned with the themes of rebellion and survival in the movie.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World: A Timeless Hit
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” remains one of the greatest hits of the 1980s. With its new wave, synth-pop, and dance-rock elements, the song defined an era. The combination of its catchy beat and deep, reflective lyrics has ensured its place in the cultural zeitgeist. Not only was it a commercial success, but it also continues to be relevant today.
Many artists have covered the song over the years, but none have matched the original version’s impact. Lorde’s cover is one of the most well-known and is a favorite among younger audiences. However, the original, with its upbeat tempo and thoughtful lyrics, continues to be the version that people turn to when they think of Tears for Fears.
In conclusion, Tears for Fears’ biggest hit, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” is more than just a song. It’s a reflection on human nature and the consequences of our desire for power. As relevant now as it was in 1985, its message continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us that while we may all want to rule the world, doing so comes at a price.
I am Jeremy Jahns – Your Cinematic Explorer
Immerse in movie reviews, Hollywood insights, and behind-the-scenes stories.
