Silver and Gold," a standout track from U2's Rattle and Hum, was crafted during a period marked by intense political and social reflection, specifically in response to the apartheid regime in South Africa. The song's genesis can be traced back to a session in which U2 collaborated with Brian Eno, who produced the album.
The band initially began experimenting with a loose structure, drawing on a raw, bluesy sound that was both urgent and emotive.
The lyrics of "Silver and Gold" were inspired by Bono's profound outrage at the injustices occurring in South Africa, particularly the systemic racism and oppression faced by the Black population. The song serves as a powerful commentary on the moral responsibility of artists and individuals to engage with political issues and stand against injustice.
"Silver And Gold" lyrics by U2
In the shithouse a shotgunPraying hands hold me down
Only the hunter was hunted
In this tin can town
Tin can town
No stars in the black night
Looks like the sky fall down
No sun in the daylight
Looks like it's chained to the ground
Chained to the ground
The warden said the exit is sold
If you want a way out
Silver and gold
Broken back to the ceiling
Broken nose to the floor
I scream at the silence, it's crawling
It crawls under the door
There's a rope around my neck
And there's a trigger in a gun
Jesus say something
I am someone, I am someone
I am someone
Captains and kings in the ships hold
They came to collect
Silver and gold
Silver and gold
See the coming and the going
Seen them captains and the kings
See them navy blue uniforms
See them bright and shiny things
Bright, shiny things, yeah
The temperature is rising
The fever white hot
Mister, I ain't got nothing
But it's more than you got
Chains no longer bind me
Not the shackles at my feet
Outside are the prisoners
Inside the free
Set them free
Set them free
A prize fighter in a corner is told
Hit where it hurts
Silver and gold
Silver and gold
Yeah, silver and gold.
This song was written in a hotel room in New York City
Right about the time a friend of ours, Little Steven,
Was putting together a record of artists against apartheid
It's a song written about a man in a shantytown outside of Johannesburg
A man who's sick of looking down the barrel of white South Africa
A man who is at the point where he is ready to take up arms against his oppressor
A man who has lost faith in the peace makers of the west
While they argue and while they fail to support a man like Bishop Tutu
And his request for economic sanctions against South Africa
Am I bugging you
Don't mean to bug ya
Ok Edge, play the blues
Check out Ordinary Love, a song by U2 that was inspired by Nelson Mandela.
The Little Steven Connection
Little Steven, also known as Steven Van Zandt, is prominently featured in U2's "Silver and Gold" through his contribution as a guitarist and backing vocalist. His involvement in the track adds a significant layer of depth and texture to the song’s arrangement. Little Steven, who is well-known for his work with Bruce Springsteen as a member of the E Street Band, brought his distinct rock sensibility and experience in blending rock with socially conscious themes, aligning perfectly with U2’s message in this piece.
During the recording sessions, Van Zandt infused "Silver and Gold" with a raw, gritty guitar riff and soulful backing vocals that enhanced the urgency and emotional weight of the song. His signature guitar style complements The Edge's sound, creating a dynamic interplay that underscores the song’s themes of social justice and the fight against apartheid.
Moreover, Little Steven's own commitment to political activism and his involvement in the anti-apartheid movement at the time made him a fitting collaborator for U2 on this track. His presence not only reinforces the song's message but also highlights the interconnectedness of artists in the fight for human rights, creating a powerful collective voice for change. Through this collaboration, "Silver and Gold" became not just a song but a rallying cry against oppression, showcasing the importance of solidarity among musicians in the pursuit of social justice.
1 Achtung Babies:
This song was written after visit El Salvador during civil war during 80's. He and Ali, were trapped under crossfire during a visit to an ONG in some place of El Salvador.
Post a Comment