Talking Heads - Once in a Lifetime - 1980
Talking Heads - Once in a Lifetime - 1980
Today, we're diving into the iconic song "Once in a Lifetime" by Talking Heads, released in 1980. This song not only marked a significant moment in the band's career but also in the evolution of new wave music. Let's explore its background, the band, the lyrics, and why it remains a staple in music history.
Background
"Once in a Lifetime" is a single from Talking Heads' fourth studio album, Remain in Light. Produced by Brian Eno, the song and the album represented a significant shift in the band's sound, incorporating elements of African music, funk, and electronic music. The song's music video, directed by Toni Basil and David Byrne, was one of the first to receive heavy rotation on MTV, helping to cement the band's popularity.
Talking Heads
Formed in 1975 in New York City, Talking Heads were composed of David Byrne (vocals, guitar), Chris Frantz (drums), Tina Weymouth (bass), and Jerry Harrison (keyboards, guitar). Known for their eclectic style, the band combined elements of punk, art rock, funk, and world music, becoming one of the most innovative and critically acclaimed bands of the late 1970s and 1980s.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of "Once in a Lifetime" reflect on the unconscious living and materialism of the American middle class. Byrne's delivery, coupled with the song's hypnotic rhythm, creates a surreal, dream-like quality that asks the listener to question their life choices and the nature of existence.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What was unique about the music video for "Once in a Lifetime"? (It was one of the first videos to receive heavy rotation on MTV) (!It was the first music video ever made) (!It was shot entirely underwater) (!It featured cameo appearances by multiple celebrities)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Who produced "Once in a Lifetime"? (Brian Eno) (!Phil Spector) (!George Martin) (!Rick Rubin)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What theme do the lyrics of "Once in a Lifetime" primarily explore? (Materialism and unconscious living) (!Love and relationships) (!Political unrest) (!Environmental concerns)
Memory
| Year of Release | 1980 |
| Album | Remain in Light |
| Producer | Brian Eno |
| Music Video Director | Toni Basil and David Byrne |
| Band Formation Year | 1975 |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Research the influence of African music on Remain in Light: Explore how African rhythms and styles influenced the album's sound.
- Analyze the music video: Watch the "Once in a Lifetime" music video and note its use of visual effects and choreography.
- Discuss the theme of materialism: Reflect on how the song's lyrics relate to today's society and your personal experiences.
Standard
- Create a presentation on Talking Heads: Compile a presentation on the history of Talking Heads, focusing on their musical innovation and the impact of "Once in a Lifetime".
- Write a comparative analysis: Compare "Once in a Lifetime" to another Talking Heads song in terms of thematic content and musical style.
- Design your own music video: Using "Once in a Lifetime" as inspiration, outline your ideas for a music video for another song that conveys a strong message.
Difficult
- Compose a song inspired by Talking Heads: Write and record a song that reflects the influence of Talking Heads, focusing on rhythm and lyrical content.
- Explore the role of MTV in the 1980s: Research and present how MTV transformed the music industry and artists' approach to marketing their music.
- Conduct an interview with a music historian: Interview a music historian about the impact of "Once in a Lifetime" and Talking Heads on modern music.
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Oral Exam
- Discuss the evolution of new wave music: Explore how "Once in a Lifetime" fits into the broader context of new wave music and its evolution.
- Analyze the song's production techniques: Discuss the production techniques used in "Once in a Lifetime" and how they contributed to its unique sound.
- Reflect on the song's cultural impact: Consider the cultural significance of "Once in a Lifetime" and its relevance in today's music scene.
- Evaluate the band's musical innovation: Discuss how Talking Heads' experimentation with different musical styles influenced other artists.
- Examine the role of music videos in an artist's success: Analyze how the "Once in a Lifetime" music video contributed to the song's popularity and the band's image.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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