Blondie - One Way or Another - 1978
Introduction to "One Way or Another" by Blondie
Blondie's "One Way or Another," released in 1978, is a rock classic that showcases the band's punk and new wave influences. This song, known for its catchy riff and Debbie Harry's distinctive vocals, has become an anthem in popular culture. It was featured on their album "Parallel Lines" and remains one of Blondie's most iconic tracks. Let's delve into the history, context, and legacy of this unforgettable song.
Background of the Song
"One Way or Another" was co-written by Debbie Harry and Nigel Harrison. This track is often noted for its aggressive lyrics and driving beat. The song's inspiration came from one of Debbie Harry's personal experiences with a stalker. Despite its serious subject, the song's upbeat tempo and Harry's delivery turned it into a rock staple.
Musical Composition and Style
The song is characterized by its punk rock and new wave elements, a blend that was signature to Blondie's sound. Its notable features include a prominent guitar riff, a steady backbeat, and Harry's dynamic vocal range. The song's structure follows a verse-chorus pattern, common in rock music of that era.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What album features "One Way or Another"? (Parallel Lines) (!Plastic Letters) (!Eat to the Beat) (!Blondie)
Which band member co-wrote "One Way or Another" with Debbie Harry? (Nigel Harrison) (!Chris Stein) (!Clem Burke) (!Jimmy Destri)
In what year was "One Way or Another" released? (1978) (!1976) (!1980) (!1979)
What was the inspiration behind "One Way or Another"? (Debbie Harry's experience with a stalker) (!A fictional movie) (!A political event) (!A love relationship)
Which genre best describes "One Way or Another"? (Punk Rock/New Wave) (!Disco) (!Pop) (!Heavy Metal)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
Which city is Blondie originally from? (New York City) (!Los Angeles) (!London) (!Berlin)
In which decade did Blondie achieve mainstream success? (1970s) (!1960s) (!1980s) (!1990s)
What is Debbie Harry's role in Blondie? (Lead vocalist) (!Drummer) (!Bassist) (!Keyboardist)
Which of the following songs is also a hit by Blondie? ("Heart of Glass") (!"Bohemian Rhapsody") (!"Like a Virgin") (!"Billie Jean")
Blondie is often associated with which music movement? (Punk and New Wave) (!Grunge) (!Disco) (!Hip Hop)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What does the singer claim to do "one way or another"? (Catch you) (!Leave you) (!Love you) (!Forget you)
In the lyrics, where does the singer mention they will follow you? (To the supermarket) (!To the beach) (!To the cinema) (!To the park)
Which line follows "I'm gonna meet you, I'm gonna meet you"? (I will meet you) (!I'll greet you) (!I'll treat you) (!I'll defeat you)
How does the singer describe their pursuit in the song? (Persistent) (!Gentle) (!Indifferent) (!Timid)
Which of the following is a recurring line in the song? ("I'm gonna getcha, getcha, getcha, getcha") (!"I'm gonna love ya, love ya, love ya, love ya") (!"I'm gonna see ya, see ya, see ya, see ya") (!"I'm gonna know ya, know ya, know ya, know ya")
Memory
Blondie | New York City-based band |
1978 | Year "One Way or Another" was released |
Debbie Harry | Lead vocalist of Blondie |
"Parallel Lines" | Album featuring "One Way or Another" |
Punk/New Wave | Musical genre of "One Way or Another" |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Create a Playlist: Create a playlist of songs from the late 1970s that share a similar style to "One Way or Another."
- Album Cover Art: Design your own album cover for "Parallel Lines" inspired by the style of the late 1970s.
Standard
- Write a Song Review: Write a detailed review of "One Way or Another," discussing its musical elements, lyrics, and impact.
- Research Punk and New Wave: Research the punk and new wave movements of the 1970s and create a presentation on their influence on music.
Difficult
- Analyze Lyrics: Analyze the lyrics of "One Way or Another" and discuss the themes and messages conveyed.
- Debate Music Evolution: Host a debate on how punk and new wave have influenced modern music genres.
Oral Exam
- Discuss the Influence: Discuss how the socio-political climate of the late 1970s influenced the music of Blondie.
- Compare Music Eras: Compare and contrast the music of the 1970s with today's music, focusing on themes and styles.
- Evaluate the Legacy: Evaluate the legacy of "One Way or Another" in popular culture and music history.
- Debate Artistic Expression: Discuss the role of personal experiences in artistic expression, using "One Way or Another" as a case study.
- Analyze the Album: Analyze "Parallel Lines" as a whole, discussing how "One Way or Another" fits into the album's context.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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