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Tags: Pop, Rock, Noise Pop, Neo-Psychedelia, Baggy, Indie Pop, Alternative Rock, Indie Rock, Chamber Pop, In English, USA

Vampire Weekend’s song “Classical” examines the relationship between societal classes, and how these relationships shift based on sociopolitical and geopolitical circumstance at any given period in history-Koenig’s lyric borrowing the word “classical” alla classical music, to assert something lasting through enough generations eventually becomes traditional and upheld by later generations still (while doubly relating to class with the playful extension of the word class to classical). “Classical” blends indie rock with elements of jazz.

The song is co-produced by singer/songwriter Ezra Koenig and producer Ariel Rechtshaid. “Classical" is on the third consecutive Vampire Weekend album to include production from Rechtshaid.^[1]

In the song “Classical” by Vampire Weekend, the lyrics delve into themes of societal norms, change, and the cyclical nature of history. Let’s break down the key lyrics and their meanings:

Verse 1 The lyrics suggest that during times of war, the educated class knew their roles and responsibilities, but during times of peace, their teachings may not be as relevant. The line “four hundred million animals competing for the zoo” could symbolize the chaotic and competitive nature of society. The “bleak sunrise” could represent a sense of hopelessness or impending change.^[2]

[Verse 1]
In times of war, the educated class knew what to do
In times of peace, their pupils couldn't meet your baby blues
Four hundred million animals competing for the zoo
It's such a bleak sunrise

[Pre-Chorus]
Untrue, unkind and unnatural
How the cruel, with time, becomes classical

[Chorus]
I know that walls fall, shacks shake
Bridges burn and bodies break
It's clear something's gonna change
And when it does, which classical remains?

[Verse 2]
The temple's gone, but still a single column stands today
That sinking feeling fades, but never really goes away
A staircase up to nothingness inside your DNA
Well, that's a bleak sunrise

[Pre-Chorus]
Untrue, unkind and unnatural
How the cruel, with time, becomes classical
[Chorus]
I know that walls fall, shacks shake
Bridges burn and bodies break
It's clear something's gonna change
And when it does, which classical remains?

[Instrumental Break]

[Pre-Chorus]
Untrue, unkind and unnatural
How the cruel, with time, becomes classical

[Chorus]
I know that walls fall, shacks shake
Bridges burn and bodies break
It's clear something's gonna change
And when it does, which classical remains?