Welcome To The Machine
Pink Floyd · Wish You Were Here [1975]
Welcome my son, welcome to the machine
Where have you been? It's alright we know where you've been
You've been in the pipeline, filling in time
Provided with toys and Scouting for Boys
You bought a guitar to punish your ma,
And you didn't like school, and you know you're nobody's fool
So welcome to the machine
Welcome my son, welcome to the machine
What did you dream? It's alright we told you what to dream
You dreamed of a big star, he played a mean guitar
He always ate in the steak bar
He loved to drive in his Jaguar
So welcome to the machine
Where have you been? It's alright we know where you've been
You've been in the pipeline, filling in time
Provided with toys and Scouting for Boys
You bought a guitar to punish your ma,
And you didn't like school, and you know you're nobody's fool
So welcome to the machine
Welcome my son, welcome to the machine
What did you dream? It's alright we told you what to dream
You dreamed of a big star, he played a mean guitar
He always ate in the steak bar
He loved to drive in his Jaguar
So welcome to the machine
Welcome To The Machine
Released on the 1975 album Wish You Were Here, "Welcome To The Machine" stands as a pivotal track in Pink Floyd's discography, serving as a direct response to the band's earlier hit "Another Brick in the Wall." The song critiques the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and the loss of individuality within corporate structures. With its driving rhythm and iconic vocal delivery, the recording encapsulates the progressive rock genre's ability to blend complex instrumentation with socially conscious themes. It remains a defining piece of the band's mid-career output, reflecting their deep engagement with contemporary societal issues through their music.