Bad Day
R.E.M. · Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage - 1982 - 2011 [2011]
I paid it nevermind. Go away
Shits so thick you could stir it with a stick- free
Teflon whitewashed presidency
We're sick of being jerked around
Wear that on your sleeve
Broadcast me a joyful noise unto the times, lord
Count your blessings
We're sick of being jerked around
We all fall down
Have you ever seen the televised St. vitus subcommittee prize
Investigation dance? Those-ants-in-pants glances
Well, look behind the eyes
It's a hallowed, hollow anesthesized
"Save my own ass, screw these guys"
Smoke and mirror lock down
Broadcast me a joyful noise unto the times, lord
Count your blessings
The papers wouldn't lie!
I sigh. Not one more
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
We're dug in the deep the price is steep
The auctioneer is such a creep
The lights went out, the oil ran dry
We blamed it on the other guy
Sure, all men are created equal
Heres the church, heres the steeple
Please stay tuned we cut to sequel
Ashes, ashes, we all fall down
Broadcast me a joyful noise unto the times, lord
Count your blessings
Ignore the lower fears
Ugh, this means war
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
Broadcast me a joyful noise unto the times, lord
Count your blessings
We're sick of being jerked around
We all fall down
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
Its been a bad day
Please don't take a picture
Its been a bad day, please...
Bad Day - R.E.M.
Released on the 1982 compilation Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage, "Bad Day" stands as a defining track in the American alternative rock canon. Written by Michael Stipe and Peter Buck, the song exemplifies the band's signature blend of jangly guitar work and introspective lyricism that would later define their 1990s breakthrough era. While often associated with their later success, this recording captures the raw energy and melodic sophistication of R.E.M.'s early development. The track features the distinctive vocal delivery of Stipe and the intricate guitar interplay of Buck, creating a sound that bridges the gap between post-punk and the emerging indie movement. It remains a staple of their discography, showcasing the band's ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that resonate across generations of listeners.