Race for the Prize
Flaming Lips, The · The Soft Bulletin
For the good of all mankind
Both of them side by side
So Determined
Locked in heated battle
For the cure that is their prize
But it's so dangerous
But they're determined
Theirs is to win
If it kills them
They're just humans
With wives and children
Upwards to the vanguard
Where the pressure is too high
Under the microscope
Hope against hope
Forging for the future
But to sacrifice their lives
Both of them side by side
So determined
Theirs is to win
If it kills them
They're just humans
With wives and children
Theirs is to win
It will kill them
They're just humans
With wives and children
Race for the Prize
Race for the Prize stands as a defining track on The Flaming Lips' 1999 masterpiece, The Soft Bulletin. This recording captures the band at the height of their psychedelic experimentation, blending intricate orchestral arrangements with their signature whimsical rock sound. The song's driving rhythm and layered instrumentation reflect the group's evolution during this era, moving away from their earlier garage rock roots toward a more polished, baroque pop aesthetic. As part of an album widely celebrated for its emotional depth and sonic innovation, the track exemplifies the band's ability to merge complex musical structures with accessible melodies. It remains a staple in their discography, showcasing the collaborative spirit and creative ambition that characterize their most acclaimed work.