Unattainable Icons | Every You Want To Be | Placebo

Every You Want to Be is a song by the British alternative rock band Placebo, from their 1998 album Black Market Music. The song's lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of fame and celebrity culture.

The song's opening lines, "I'm a celebrity, get me out of here," have been seen as a wry observation on the superficiality of fame. The lyrics that follow, in which the singer describes being treated like a god or a rockstar, but ultimately feeling empty and unfulfilled, can be read as a critique of the way society often elevates celebrities to unrealistic standards.

The chorus, "Every you want to be is just a lie," suggests that these constructed personas are ultimately unattainable. The song's narrator seems trapped in this cycle of trying to live up to his public image, while secretly feeling like he's failing to meet the expectations placed upon him.

Throughout the song, Placebo's lead vocalist Brian Molko delivers his signature blend of soaring vocals and spoken-word passages, imbuing the lyrics with a sense of emotional urgency. The song's instrumentation is characteristic of Placebo's early work, featuring driving guitar riffs and a pounding beat.

Despite its themes of superficiality and disillusionment, Every You Want to Be has become a fan favorite and a staple of Placebo's live shows. The song's blend of introspective lyrics and catchy hooks has made it a standout track in the band's discography.