About the song
“Rocket to Stardom” by Kris Kristofferson is a satirical and biting commentary on the fickle nature of fame and the music industry’s obsession with quick success. Featured on his 1977 album *Easter Island*, the song uses sharp wit and irony to highlight the often superficial and exploitative aspects of the entertainment world. Kristofferson, known for his insightful songwriting, takes a humorous yet critical look at the price of stardom and the compromises artists make in their pursuit of it.
The lyrics tell the story of a hopeful musician who is eager to rise to fame, imagining the glamorous lifestyle that comes with it. However, the narrative quickly shifts to expose the harsh realities behind the facade of showbiz. Kristofferson describes a world where talent is less important than marketability and where artists are reduced to mere commodities. The protagonist’s dream of stardom becomes a cautionary tale about losing one’s identity and integrity in the relentless quest for success.
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Musically, “Rocket to Stardom” has a lively, upbeat tempo with a blend of country and rock influences. The jaunty melody and energetic instrumentation create a contrast with the cynical tone of the lyrics, enhancing the satirical impact of the song. Kristofferson’s vocal delivery is playful yet pointed, underscoring the song’s message with a blend of humor and skepticism. The catchy, almost whimsical tune belies the serious critique at its core, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The chorus, with its catchy repetition of the phrase “rocket to stardom,” captures the allure and excitement of achieving fame, while also mocking the idea of instant success. It serves as a reminder that the journey to stardom is often fraught with pitfalls and that the glamorous image presented to the public rarely reflects the true experiences of those who live it. The song encourages listeners to question the values of the entertainment industry and to consider the cost of chasing fame at the expense of authenticity and artistic freedom.
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“Rocket to Stardom” is a clever and engaging critique of the music business and the culture of celebrity. Kristofferson’s ability to blend humor with incisive social commentary makes the song a standout track, offering a timeless reflection on the allure and dangers of fame. It serves as both a warning and a celebration of those who navigate the treacherous waters of the entertainment world with their integrity intact.
Video
Lyrics
“Rocket To Stardom”
That opens up the gate outside my home
And let’s me let in anyone I really wanna see
And keep out all them other dudes I don’t
Then one by one they started comin’ over to perform
And someone played “Temptation” on kazoo
Nellie got as naked as the day that she was born
And it sure was all over Baby Blue
[Chorus:]
I’ve got electric eyes, two big dogs, and a mine-field
And miles and miles and miles of barbed-wire fence
But the biggest show in town is in my driveway
And we ain’t had a good night sleepin’ since
Orville Baker’s showin’ us the fastest draw in town
Cora Lee’s clackin’ on her spoons
Ol’ Jesse’s trick dog sure does look dead lyin’ on the ground
And Jesse’s wife is a-howlin’ at the moon
Charly’s ugly daughter sure can tap dance
Mable Thatcher’s walkin’ on her hands
And just as I was leavin’ for the kitchen for a snack
Ol’ Lulla Bell amazed us with her fans
[Chorus:]
I’ve got electric eyes, two big dogs, and a mine-field
And miles and miles and miles of barbed-wire fence
But the biggest show in town is in my driveway
And we ain’t had a good night sleepin’ since
Froney’s got an act that’s hard to follow
Norman plays a nimble tamborine
You should see what Sara Lee can swallow
And ol’ Billy does a wicked “Mr. Clean”
Good Lord, if I’d’ve known this future when I started
Believe you me, I’d never change a thing
I got a closed circuit circus in my bedroom
And a world full of whackos in the wings
Get ’em Burt!
[Chorus:]
I’ve got electric eyes, two big dogs, and a mine-field
And miles and miles and miles of barbed-wire fence
But the biggest show in town is in my driveway
And we ain’t had a good night’s sleepin’ since