Daddy's Gonna Pay For Your Crashed Car
U2 · Zooropa (1993)
You're a precious stone
You're out on your own
You know everyone in the world
But you feel alone
Daddy won't let you weep
Daddy won't let you ache
Daddy gives you as much as you can take
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
A little uptight
You're a baby's fist
Butterfly kisses up and down your wrist
When you see daddy coming
You're licking your lip
Nails bitten down to the quick
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
You've got a head full of traffic
You're a siren's song
You cry for mama
And daddy's right along
He gives you the keys to a flamin' car
Daddy's with you wherever you are
Daddy's a comfort
Daddy's your best friend
Daddy'll hold your hand right up to the end
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday's alrightÂ…
You're out on your own
You know everyone in the world
But you feel alone
Daddy won't let you weep
Daddy won't let you ache
Daddy gives you as much as you can take
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
A little uptight
You're a baby's fist
Butterfly kisses up and down your wrist
When you see daddy coming
You're licking your lip
Nails bitten down to the quick
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
You've got a head full of traffic
You're a siren's song
You cry for mama
And daddy's right along
He gives you the keys to a flamin' car
Daddy's with you wherever you are
Daddy's a comfort
Daddy's your best friend
Daddy'll hold your hand right up to the end
A-ha sha-la, a-ha sha-la
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Daddy's gonna pay for your crashed car
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday's alrightÂ…
Daddy's Gonna Pay For Your Crashed Car
Released in 1993 on Zooropa, this track stands as a defining moment in U2's evolution from post-punk revival to polished rock. The song features a driving rhythm section and a distinct, almost industrial sheen that marked a significant departure from the organic sound of The Joshua Tree. Lyrically, it explores themes of parental responsibility and the consequences of reckless behavior, delivered with a cynical yet melodic tone. The recording process involved extensive studio experimentation, resulting in a production style that influenced the alternative rock landscape of the mid-90s. It remains a staple of the band's discography, showcasing their ability to blend raw energy with sophisticated songwriting structures.