20th Century Blues
Marianne Faithfull · 20th Century Blues [1997]
Can make the world so wrong?
In this hurly burly of insanity
Our dreams cannot last long
We've reached a deadline
A press headline, every sorrow
Blues value is news value
Tomorrow
Blues
Twentieth century blues
Are getting me down
Blues
Escape those weary
Twentieth century blues
Why, if there's a God in the sky
Why shouldn't He grin
High above this dreary
Twentieth century din?
In this strange illusion, chaos and confusion
People seem to lose their way
What is there to strive for love or keep alive for
Say, hey, hey, call it a day?
Blues
Nothing to win or to lose
It's getting me down
Blues
Escape those weary
Twentieth century blues
We've reached a deadline
A press headline, every sorrow
Blues value is news value
Tomorrow
Blues
Nothing to win or to lose
It's getting me down
Blues
Escape those dreary
Twentieth century blues
20th Century Blues
Recorded in 1997, Marianne Faithfull's '20th Century Blues' stands as a poignant exploration of modern alienation and existential weariness. The track features a distinctive, haunting vocal delivery that underscores the song's melancholic atmosphere, characteristic of Faithfull's later period where she delved deeply into themes of isolation and the complexities of contemporary life. Released on the album of the same name, the recording reflects her continued evolution as an artist, blending folk sensibilities with a more introspective, almost cinematic approach to songwriting. The piece captures the universal sentiment of feeling disconnected from the world around us, resonating with listeners who recognize the struggle of navigating the modern era. It remains a significant song in her discography, showcasing her ability to translate personal emotion into a broader musical statement.