We Built This City: Exploring Starship's Iconic Anthem

"We Built This City" by Starship is one of those songs that you either love or love to hate. No matter what your stance is, it's undeniably iconic. Released in 1985, the song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. But beyond its commercial success, "We Built This City" has a fascinating history and has sparked considerable debate about its meaning and message. So, let's dive into the world of Starship and unravel the story behind this unforgettable track.

The Origins of a Controversial Hit

To truly understand "We Built This City," we need to look at its origins. The song was the brainchild of Bernie Taupin, Martin Page, Dennis Lambert, and Peter Wolf, each bringing their unique talents to the table. Taupin, best known for his collaborations with Elton John, provided the initial lyrical concept. Martin Page and Dennis Lambert, seasoned songwriters, contributed to the melody and overall structure. Peter Wolf, a renowned producer, helped shape the song's sound and arrangement. The collaboration aimed to create a powerful anthem that reflected the changing landscape of rock and roll and the challenges faced by musicians in a rapidly evolving industry.

The Lyrics: A Commentary on the Music Industry

The lyrics of "We Built This City" are often interpreted as a critique of the commercialization of music and the struggles faced by artists in maintaining their creative integrity. The song paints a picture of a city built on rock and roll dreams, but one that has become corrupted by corporate interests and superficial trends. Lines like "Someone's always playing corporation games" and "Marconi plays the mamba" suggest a sense of disillusionment with the music industry's focus on profit over artistic merit. However, the lyrics also express a sense of defiance and determination to reclaim the spirit of rock and roll, as evidenced by the chorus: "We built this city, we built this city on rock and roll."

The Music Video: A Visual Representation

The music video for "We Built This City" further reinforces the song's themes. Directed by Francis Delia, the video features Starship performing in a futuristic cityscape, interspersed with scenes of corporate executives and media moguls pulling the strings. The visuals create a sense of tension between the band's artistic vision and the forces that seek to control it. The video also incorporates elements of social commentary, highlighting the impact of technology and consumerism on society. Overall, the music video serves as a powerful visual representation of the song's message, adding another layer of depth to its interpretation.

The Controversy and Criticism

Despite its commercial success, "We Built This City" has faced considerable criticism over the years. Some critics have dismissed the song as being overly commercial and lacking in artistic substance. Others have questioned the authenticity of its message, arguing that Starship, as a commercially successful band, was not in a position to critique the music industry. The song has also been criticized for its perceived lack of originality, with some accusing it of borrowing elements from other popular songs of the time. Despite these criticisms, "We Built This City" has continued to resonate with audiences, remaining a popular and recognizable song to this day.

The "Worst Song Ever" Debate

One of the most notable criticisms of "We Built This City" came from Rolling Stone magazine, which named it the "worst song of the 1980s" in a 2011 poll. This label has stuck with the song ever since, fueling the debate over its merits and flaws. While some agree with Rolling Stone's assessment, others defend the song, arguing that its catchy melody and relatable message make it a guilty pleasure. Regardless of one's opinion, the "worst song ever" debate has undoubtedly contributed to the song's notoriety and enduring appeal.

Defending "We Built This City"

Despite the criticism, "We Built This City" has its defenders. Some argue that the song's commercial appeal is precisely what makes it effective. Its catchy melody and sing-along chorus make it accessible to a wide audience, allowing its message to reach a larger number of people. Others argue that the song's message is still relevant today, as the music industry continues to grapple with issues of commercialization and artistic integrity. Additionally, some defend the song on nostalgic grounds, arguing that it evokes a specific time and place in music history.

Starship: The Band Behind the Anthem

To fully appreciate "We Built This City," it's essential to understand the band behind it: Starship. Formed in the early 1980s, Starship was a continuation of the band Jefferson Starship, which itself evolved from the iconic psychedelic rock band Jefferson Airplane. Starship aimed for a more commercial sound, embracing pop and rock elements to appeal to a wider audience. The band achieved considerable success throughout the 1980s, with hits like "Sara," "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now," and, of course, "We Built This City."

From Jefferson Airplane to Starship: A Transformation

The transformation from Jefferson Airplane to Starship was a significant one. Jefferson Airplane was known for its experimental and politically charged music, while Starship embraced a more mainstream sound. This change was met with mixed reactions from fans, with some accusing the band of selling out. However, others argued that the transformation was a natural evolution, reflecting the changing tastes of the music-listening public. Regardless of one's opinion, the transformation from Jefferson Airplane to Starship was a pivotal moment in the band's history, shaping its identity and sound.

The Key Members of Starship

Starship's lineup consisted of talented musicians who each contributed to the band's success. Grace Slick, the iconic vocalist from Jefferson Airplane, remained a key member of Starship, bringing her powerful voice and stage presence to the band. Mickey Thomas, another vocalist, joined the band in 1979 and became an integral part of Starship's sound. Craig Chaquico, the band's guitarist, contributed memorable riffs and solos to their songs. Other notable members included Pete Sears on bass, Donny Baldwin on drums, and Mark Morgan on keyboards. Together, these musicians created the signature sound of Starship, blending rock, pop, and electronic elements.

The Enduring Legacy of "We Built This City"

Despite the controversy and criticism, "We Built This City" has left an enduring legacy. The song remains a staple of classic rock radio stations and continues to be featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its catchy melody and relatable message have made it a timeless anthem for generations of music lovers. Whether you love it or hate it, "We Built This City" is a song that you won't soon forget.

A Song That Transcends Generations

One of the reasons for the enduring legacy of "We Built This City" is its ability to transcend generations. The song's themes of commercialism, artistic integrity, and the struggle to maintain one's identity resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you're a seasoned rock fan or a young music enthusiast, you can likely relate to the song's message on some level. This universality has helped to keep the song alive and relevant, ensuring that it will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.

The Power of Nostalgia

Nostalgia also plays a significant role in the enduring legacy of "We Built This City." For many, the song evokes memories of the 1980s, a time of big hair, bright colors, and iconic music. Hearing the song can transport listeners back to their youth, reminding them of simpler times and cherished memories. This nostalgic connection helps to keep the song popular, as people continue to seek out and enjoy the music that shaped their lives.

Conclusion: A Love-Hate Relationship with an Iconic Song

"We Built This City" is a song that provokes strong reactions. Some consider it a masterpiece, while others deem it the worst song ever recorded. Regardless of your personal opinion, it's undeniable that "We Built This City" has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its catchy melody, thought-provoking lyrics, and controversial history have made it a topic of discussion and debate for decades. So, the next time you hear "We Built This City" on the radio, take a moment to appreciate its unique place in music history, even if you secretly cringe a little.

Whether you love it or hate it, We Built This City remains an iconic and unforgettable song. Its catchy melody, relatable message, and controversial history have made it a staple of popular culture, ensuring that it will continue to be discussed and debated for years to come. So next time you hear it, embrace the nostalgia and enjoy the ride!