Useless

Depeche Mode · Singles 81-98 [2003]

Well it's about time

It's beginning to hurt

Time you made up your mind

Just what is it all worth

All my useless advice

All my hanging around

All your cutting down to size

All my bringing you down

Watch the clock on the wall

Feel the slowing of time

Hear a voice in the hall

Echoing in my mind

All your stupid ideals

You've got your head in the clouds

You should see how it feels

With your feet on the ground

Here I stand the accused

With your fist in my face

Feeling tired and bruised

With the bitterest taste

All my useless advice

All my hanging around

All your cutting down to size

All my bringing you down

All your stupid ideals

You've got your head in the clouds

You should see how it feels

With your feet on the ground

Useless

Useless stands as a defining track from Depeche Mode's mid-1990s era, capturing the band's transition into a darker, more industrial soundscape. Released during the period surrounding the Ultra album, the song showcases the group's signature blend of electronic textures and melancholic melodies. Martin Gore's songwriting delivers a characteristic introspection, while the production highlights the band's ability to craft atmospheric pop that resonates with emotional depth. As part of their extensive catalogue of singles, the recording exemplifies the sonic experimentation that kept the group at the forefront of alternative dance music. It remains a staple in their live performances, reflecting the enduring appeal of their work during a time of significant artistic evolution.