Burning Down the House
by Talking Heads
What is “Burning Down the House” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Burning Down the House” by Talking Heads is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
"Burning Down the House" by Talking Heads captures a sense of chaotic release and the unexpected disruptions that life can throw our way, wrapped in a funky, energetic musical composition.
So… what’s this song really about?
At its core, "Burning Down the House" is a song about upheaval and renewal, characterized by its metaphorical sense of burning down the old to make way for the new. The vivid and somewhat disjointed lyrics, paired with a pulsating beat, suggest both a physical and metaphorical cleansing — the idea of clearing out the unnecessary, the outdated, or the problematic. David Byrne's delivery spans a range of emotions, reflecting the confusion, excitement, and fear that often accompany significant changes or challenges in life. The song doesn't just convey destruction, but rather transformation, inspiring listeners to embrace change, even when it seems radical or unexpected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What year was "Burning Down the House" released?
"Burning Down the House" was released in 1983.
Q: Did "Burning Down the House" reach any notable positions in music charts?
Yes, the song reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Q: What album features the song "Burning Down the House"?
The song is featured on Talking Heads' album 'Speaking in Tongues.'
Lyrics to “Burning Down the House”
50 ContributorsTranslations
[Verse 3]
All wet
Here, you might need a raincoat
Shake-down
Dreams walking in broad daylight
Three hundred sixty-five degrees
Burning down the house!
[Chorus]
It was once upon a place
Sometimes I listen to myself
Gonna come in first place
People on their way to work say
"Baby, what did you expect?"
Gonna burst into flame, aah!
[Synthesizer Solo]
Burning down the house!
[Verse 4]
My house
Is out of the ordinary
That’s right
Don't wanna hurt nobody
Some things sure can sweep me off my feet
Burning down the house!
[Chorus]
No visible means of support
And you have not seen nothing yet
Everything's stuck together
And I don't know what you expect
Staring into the TV set
Fighting fire with fire, aah!
[Instrumental Outro]