The meaning of Get The Message by J Geils Band
Get The Message is a hit single by J. Geils Band, released in 1981 as part of their album "Love Stinks". The song's lyrics are often interpreted as a plea to get through to someone who is ignoring or dismissing the speaker's concerns.
The song's writer and lead vocalist, Peter Wolf, has said that the song was inspired by his own experiences trying to communicate with someone who wasn't listening. In an interview, Wolf explained: "I was trying to tell this guy something and he just wouldn't listen... I was getting frustrated because I was trying to get my point across and it seemed like nobody was paying any attention."
The song's chorus, "Get the message, tryin' to break through", is a direct reflection of this frustration. Wolf has said that he was trying to convey the sense of desperation and urgency that comes from feeling like your voice isn't being heard. The lyrics are intentionally simple and straightforward, reflecting the singer's desire to be understood.
Throughout the song, Wolf's distinctive vocals and the band's signature blend of rock, blues, and R&B create a catchy and memorable melody. The song features a prominent guitar riff and a driving beat, which help to propel the song forward and emphasize the sense of urgency in the lyrics.
In many ways, "Get The Message" is a classic example of 80s rock music, with its emphasis on catchy hooks and a strong backbeat. However, the song's themes of frustration and desperation are timeless and continue to resonate with listeners today.