Relax Don't Do It Lyrics

Relax, Don't Do It: A Deep Dive into Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Controversial Anthem

"Relax, Don't Do It" – the title alone evokes a certain intrigue. This 1983 single by Frankie Goes to Hollywood wasn't just a catchy tune; it was a cultural phenomenon, a chart-topping hit that ignited controversy and redefined the boundaries of pop music. This article will delve into the lyrics, exploring their meaning, the societal context of their release, and the lasting impact they've had on music and popular culture. We'll dissect the song's ambiguity, examining the different interpretations and the power of its suggestive language. By the end, you’ll have a deeper understanding not just of the lyrics, but of the song's broader significance.

The Lyrical Landscape: Deconstructing "Relax, Don't Do It"

The lyrics of "Relax, Don't Do It" are deliberately ambiguous, a hallmark of the band's approach. This deliberate vagueness fueled speculation and contributed significantly to the song's popularity. While ostensibly a cautionary tale about the dangers of reckless abandon, the lyrics are rich with innuendo and double entendres, leaving much open to interpretation.

The song opens with a seemingly simple plea: "Relax, don't do it." But what exactly is the listener being urged not to do? The initial ambiguity sets the stage for the rest of the song. The following lines, "When you get too close to the edge," further hint at a risky situation, but the nature of that risk remains unclear.

The chorus reinforces this uncertainty: "Relax, don't do it / When you want to / Relax, don't do it / When you need to." The repetition emphasizes the urgency of the warning, but the specific action being discouraged remains elusive. The phrase "ooh-la-la-la" acts as a sonic bridge, adding to the song's sensual and suggestive atmosphere.

The verses delve deeper into the implied narrative. Lines like "Your body's a temple / Your heart's a beating drum" suggest a sensual awakening, a physical experience that is both exciting and potentially dangerous. The imagery is powerful, hinting at the intoxicating nature of the forbidden act.

Further lines like "Love's a battlefield / We've been caught in the crossfire" introduce the element of conflict and risk. This could be interpreted as the conflict between desire and restraint, or the dangers of a passionate, potentially destructive relationship. The ambiguity allows the listener to project their own experiences and interpretations onto the lyrics.

The bridge, with its repetition of "Ooh-la-la-la, ooh-la-la-la," intensifies the sensual tension, culminating in the final, powerful repetition of the chorus. The song concludes without resolving the central question: what exactly should the listener "relax" and not do? This unresolved tension is part of the song’s lasting power.

The Societal Context: A Controversial Climb to the Top

"Relax, Don't Do It" was released at a time of significant social and political change. The early 1980s saw a burgeoning gay rights movement, increasing awareness of AIDS, and a growing tension between conservative and progressive values. The song’s suggestive lyrics, coupled with its sexually charged music video, caused a significant uproar amongst conservative groups and broadcasters.

Many interpreted the song as an explicit endorsement of homosexual activity, while others saw it as a metaphor for other forms of risky behavior. The BBC banned the music video, citing its explicit content, further fueling the controversy and igniting public interest. This censorship, ironically, only contributed to the song's popularity. The resulting media attention propelled "Relax, Don't Do It" to the top of the charts, making it a defiant anthem for a generation pushing against societal norms.

Multiple Interpretations: Beyond the Surface

The beauty and enduring appeal of "Relax, Don't Do It" lie in its open-ended nature. The ambiguity of the lyrics allows for multiple interpretations, making the song resonate with different listeners on different levels.

• Homosexuality and Liberation: Many interpreted the song as a celebration of gay liberation, a defiant response to the homophobic attitudes prevalent at the time. The suggestive lyrics and the band's own openly gay identity fueled this interpretation. The act of "relaxing" could be seen as embracing one's sexuality without fear of judgment.

• Risky Behavior and Self-Control: Others viewed the song as a warning against reckless behavior, urging listeners to exercise self-control and avoid potentially harmful actions. The "edge" in the lyrics could refer to any risky behavior, whether sexual or otherwise.

• The Thrill of the Forbidden: The song could also be interpreted as an exploration of the thrill of the forbidden, the allure of danger and transgression. The ambiguity of the lyrics allows the listener to focus on the excitement and risk-taking aspects of the implied actions.

• The Power of Suggestion: The song's power comes partly from its use of innuendo and suggestion. The listener is left to fill in the blanks, creating their own personal meaning and connection with the lyrics. This participatory aspect of the song enhances its emotional impact.

The Music Video: A Visual Spectacle and Further Controversy

The music video for "Relax, Don't Do It" is as controversial as the lyrics themselves. The video features a series of provocative images and scenes, further fueling the debate surrounding the song's meaning and intent. The visual style, incorporating elements of homoeroticism and surrealism, further challenged societal norms and contributed to the song's notoriety. The BBC's ban on the video only served to increase its appeal among younger audiences, who saw it as a symbol of rebellion against authority. The banning created a powerful sense of forbidden fruit, drawing more people into experiencing the imagery.

The Legacy of "Relax, Don't Do It": An Enduring Anthem

"Relax, Don't Do It" remains a significant piece of pop culture history. Its enduring legacy stems not just from its musical quality but also from its controversial nature and its ambiguous lyrics. The song’s open-endedness allows it to resonate with different generations and continue to spark debate and discussion. It's a testament to the power of ambiguity and the potential of music to challenge societal norms and ignite cultural conversation. The song also highlighted the power of censorship; often, attempts to suppress art only serve to amplify its impact and influence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the meaning of "Relax, Don't Do It"? The meaning is intentionally ambiguous, allowing for multiple interpretations. Common understandings include warnings against reckless behavior, celebrations of gay liberation, and explorations of the thrill of the forbidden.

• Why was the song banned by the BBC? The BBC banned the music video due to its sexually suggestive content and perceived homoerotic imagery.

• What is the significance of the "ooh-la-la-la" in the song? The repetition of "ooh-la-la-la" intensifies the sensual tension and contributes to the song's overall suggestive atmosphere.

• How did the controversy surrounding the song impact its popularity? The controversy, including the BBC ban, significantly boosted the song's popularity, turning it into a defiant anthem for a generation.

• What is the lasting legacy of "Relax, Don't Do It"? The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ambiguous lyrics, its controversial nature, and its ability to spark ongoing debate and discussion about sexuality, censorship, and societal norms.

Conclusion: A Song That Continues to Resonate

"Relax, Don't Do It" is more than just a song; it's a cultural artifact that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Its ambiguous lyrics, provocative music video, and the controversy it ignited have cemented its place in music history. The song's enduring appeal lies in its ability to elicit multiple interpretations, allowing listeners to connect with it on a personal level. By understanding the societal context of its release and the various interpretations of its lyrics, we can appreciate the true depth and lasting impact of Frankie Goes to Hollywood's controversial anthem. It stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of music to challenge, provoke, and ultimately, connect us.