The Blue Monday Song by New Order-Its Origin and Meaning

Have you listened to this futuristic Blue Monday Song which was created back in the 1980s? The Blue Monday Song by New Order-Its Origin and Meaning

As I found myself caught in the clutches of the infamous Monday blues, I stumbled upon a song that instantly brightened my day - “Blue Monday” by the British band New Order. Let's take a deep dive into this Blue Monday Song. Do you know the origin and meaning of this Synth-pop which is already 40 years old? This infectious track, which seamlessly blends elements of electronic and post-punk music, has not only achieved remarkable success but also carries a deeper meaning that resonates with many.

The Blue Monday Song

“Blue Monday” belongs to the genre of synth-pop, a style that gained popularity in the 1980s. Synth-pop combines the use of synthesizers and electronic instruments with catchy melodies and lyrics. It’s a genre that effortlessly infuses energy and danceability into music, making it impossible to resist moving to the beat.

Blue Monday-The Synth-Pop Genre

Since its release in 1983, “Blue Monday” has garnered immense recognition and achieved several remarkable milestones. The song became an instant hit, reaching number nine on the UK Singles Chart. It went on to become New Order’s best-selling single, selling over a million copies worldwide. Its commercial success was fueled by its innovative 12-inch vinyl release, which featured a unique die-cut sleeve designed to resemble a floppy disk.

The History of “Blue Monday” and New Order

To fully appreciate the significance of “Blue Monday,” it is important to delve into the history of the band behind it - New Order. Formed in 1980 after the disintegration of Joy Division, New Order emerged as pioneers of the post-punk and electronic music scenes. New Order was formed by the remaining members of Joy Division following the tragic death of lead singer Ian Curtis.

Determined to carry on their musical journey, Bernard Sumner, Peter Hook, Stephen Morris, and Gillian Gilbert transformed their sound, embracing electronic elements and forging a new path. This transition from Joy Division’s melancholic post-punk sound to New Order’s innovative blend of electronic and alternative rock laid the foundation for their future success.

Blue Monday: A Game-Changing Single

“Blue Monday” was released as a single in March 1983. Produced by legendary British record producer Martin Hannett, the song showcased New Order’s innovative approach to music production. Its distinctive mix of pulsating beats, hypnotic synth lines, and melancholic vocals instantly captivated listeners worldwide. The song’s groundbreaking use of electronic instruments and drum machines pushed the boundaries of what was considered mainstream music at the time.

Listen to the Blue Monday Song

Blue Monday Song Lyrics

How does it feel

To treat me like you do?

When you've laid your hands upon me

And told me who you are

I thought I was mistaken

I thought I heard your words

Tell me how do I feel

Tell me now, how do I feel

Those who came before me

Lived through their vocations

From the past until completion

They'll turn away no more

I still find it so hard

To say what I need to say

But I'm quite sure that you'll tell me

Just how I should feel today

I see a ship in the harbor

I can and shall obey

But if it wasn't for your misfortune

I'd be a heavenly person today

And I thought I was mistaken

And I thought I heard you speak

Tell me, how do I feel

Tell me now, how should I feel

Now I stand here waiting

I thought I told you to leave me

While I walk down to the beach

Tell me how does it feel

When your heart grows cold, grows cold...

The Meaning of The Lyrics of Blue Monday Song

While “Blue Monday” is undoubtedly a catchy and energetic tune, its lyrics invite various interpretations as they are quite abstract and open to personal reflection. The song’s lyrics touch upon themes of heartbreak, disillusionment, and the struggle to find happiness amidst life’s challenges. Its poetic nature allows listeners to apply their own experiences and emotions to the song, making it relatable on a deeply personal level. The song’s enigmatic lyrics can evoke different emotions and thoughts in different listeners. Here is a possible interpretation of the entire song:

The Opening Lines: Vulnerability and Questioning

The opening lines, “How does it feel? To treat me like you do,” immediately introduce a sense of vulnerability and questioning in the narrator’s voice. They express a longing for understanding and empathy from someone who may have mistreated or disregarded them in the past. The following line, “When you’ve laid your hands upon me and told me who you are,” suggests a situation in which the narrator has been physically and emotionally affected by this person’s actions, leaving them confused and seeking clarity.

The Chorus: Reflection on Societal Expectations

The chorus, “Those who came before me lived through their vocations, from the past until completion,” can be seen as a reflection on the expectations and roles imposed on individuals by society. It implies that those who came before the narrator had to conform to certain societal norms, possibly sacrificing their true desires and aspirations to fulfill predetermined vocations. The line “They’ll turn away no more” hints at a desire for change and a refusal to continue living in the same way.

The Second Verse: Symbolism of the Ship and Personal Growth

The second verse introduces the image of a ship in the harbor, which can symbolize stability, security, or even stagnation. The narrator suggests that their own personal growth and happiness would have been different if not for the misfortune they experienced. This misfortune is left open to interpretation, but it could represent a failed relationship, missed opportunities, or other setbacks that have hindered their journey towards becoming a better version of themselves.

The Repeated Chorus: Frustration with Emotional Dictation

The chorus repeats, emphasizing the struggle to express oneself honestly and openly. The line “But I’m quite sure that you’ll tell me just how I should feel today” implies a sense of frustration with someone else’s attempts to dictate the narrator’s emotions and experiences. It suggests a longing for autonomy and the freedom to determine their own emotional state.

The Final Section: Anticipation and Contemplation

The final section of the song introduces a new perspective with the line “Now I stand here waiting.” It conveys a sense of anticipation or resignation, suggesting that the narrator is waiting for something to change or for someone to take action. The reference to walking down to the beach adds a visual element, further emphasizing the narrator’s contemplative state of mind.

The Outro: Introspection and Uncertainty

The outro repeats the question “How does it feel?” multiple times, creating a sense of introspection and self-reflection. The repetition reinforces the theme of emotional detachment and the struggle to understand and articulate one’s own feelings. The final lines, “To be on your own with no direction home, like a complete unknown, like a rolling stone,” evoke a sense of isolation and uncertainty. They suggest a feeling of being adrift, lacking a clear path or purpose in life.

In summary, “Blue Monday” can be interpreted as a reflection on emotional detachment, disillusionment, societal expectations, missed opportunities, and the longing for personal growth and autonomy. The abstract nature of the lyrics allows listeners to connect with them on an individual level, bringing their own experiences and emotions into the interpretation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, my encounter with “Blue Monday” has been nothing short of transformative. This iconic song by New Order encapsulates the spirit of synth-pop while delivering a powerful message about resilience and finding solace in music. Its remarkable achievements and historical significance make it a must-listen for any music enthusiast.

So, the next time you find yourself battling those Monday blues, turn up the volume and let “Blue Monday” transport you to a world where joy triumphs over despair. With its abstract lyrics that invite personal interpretation, this song is bound to resonate with you on a deeply emotional level.