The Meaning Behind The Song: Lights Out by UFO

When it comes to classic rock anthems, few songs can hold a candle to Lights Out by UFO. This legendary track, released in 1977, has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences to this day. But what makes this song so special? What is the meaning behind Lights Out, and why does

“Lights Out” by UFO: The Powerful Message Behind the Rock Anthem

When it comes to classic rock anthems, few songs can hold a candle to “Lights Out” by UFO. This legendary track, released in 1977, has stood the test of time and continues to captivate audiences to this day. But what makes this song so special? What is the meaning behind “Lights Out,” and why does it still resonate with listeners decades later? Let’s delve deeper into the lyrics, music, and history of this iconic rock hit.

Table of Contents

The Story Behind “Lights Out”

Before we analyze the song’s lyrics, let’s explore the story behind “Lights Out.” UFO, a British hard rock band, had been making music since the late 1960s, but it wasn’t until their 1977 album “Lights Out” that they achieved commercial success. The album, produced by the legendary Ron Nevison, featured ten tracks, with the eponymous “Lights Out” as the lead single. The song received critical acclaim and propelled the band to new heights of fame.

At its core, “Lights Out” is a classic rock song, with heavy riffs, driving drums, and a powerful vocal performance from lead singer Phil Mogg. But the song’s true power lies in its lyrics, which convey a message that is as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.

The Lyrics of “Lights Out”

The opening lines of “Lights Out” set the stage for the song’s message:

“Get outta my way, I’m comin’ like a freight train,
Got a head of steam and a hurricane lane.”

From the outset, it’s clear that the narrator is a force to be reckoned with. He’s on a mission, and he won’t let anyone stand in his way. But what is driving him? The chorus gives us a clue:

“Lights out, lights out in London,
Hold on tight till the end of the line.”

Here, the song’s message becomes clear. The “lights out” metaphor represents a call to action, a plea for change. The narrator is urging his listeners to wake up, to recognize the problems in the world around them, and to take action to make things better.

The second verse expands on this theme:

“Faster than a laser bullet,
Louder than an atom bomb,
Chromium plated boiling metal,
Brighter than a thousand suns.”

Here, the narrator compares himself to some of the most powerful forces in the universe, drawing on imagery that suggests both speed and power. But again, the underlying message is clear: there is a need for energy and action, for a sense of urgency in the face of the world’s problems.

A Call to Action

“Lights Out” is an anthem, a rallying cry for change and action. But what specifically is the song urging its listeners to do? The lyrics don’t offer a prescriptive answer, but they do make clear the need for something to be done:

“Tough breaks, hard times,
Countin’ the minutes that your money buys,
Jugglin’ names and telephone numbers,
Keepin’ one step ahead of the thunder.”

These lines suggest a world in which people are struggling, where money and power are the dominant forces, and where staying ahead of the game is a constant battle. The song’s message, then, is a call to action: to fight against these forces, to resist the status quo, and to demand change.

The Legacy of “Lights Out”

“Lights Out” has had a lasting impact on the world of rock music, inspiring countless artists over the decades since its release. The song’s powerful riffs and urgent message have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock, and its message of resistance and change remains as relevant as ever.

Today, many artists continue to draw on the legacy of “Lights Out,” inspired by its call to action and its message of resistance. As the world continues to grapple with social and political challenges, songs like “Lights Out” remind us that we all have the power to make a difference.

The Importance of Classic Rock

At its core, “Lights Out” is a classic rock song, and it serves as a reminder of the power of this genre. Classic rock has a timeless quality that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, and its messages of resistance, rebellion, and change remain as relevant today as they were decades ago.

As we continue to appreciate and celebrate the music of the past, we can draw inspiration from songs like “Lights Out,” using their messages of hope and action to fuel a brighter future.

In Conclusion

“Lights Out” by UFO is more than just a classic rock anthem. It’s a call to action, a demand for change, and a reminder of the power of music to inspire and motivate us. Decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with fans, its timeless message as relevant today as it was in 1977.

ncG1vNJzZminnJnBqrnEpqysoZNjsLC5jq2fnmWdmq6vtc2gZJudmJ67pXnToZxmq5%2BjtG64yKCfratdpMK1ecGyZK6en2Q%3D

 Share!