Common People is one of the most iconic songs of the 90s, representing a generational anthem that resonates to this day. Created by the groundbreaking British band Pulp , this piece captures the essence of class tensions and authenticity in a world that often feels superficial. The lyrics, loaded with social criticism, tell the story of a rich young woman who yearns to experience the “common” life of the working class, prompting a sharp reflection on the disconnect between different social strata . In this article, we will analyze the lyrics of “Common People,” offer a detailed translation, and break down its deep meaning. With its mix of catchy melody and provocative lyrics, this song has become a classic that continues to inspire new generations, reaffirming its place in music history. Read on to find out why it’s so special!
Lyrics and translation into Spanish
Common People
She came from Greece she had a thirst for knowledge
She studied sculpture at St. Martin’s college
That’s where I
Caught her eye
She told me that her dad was loaded
I said: In that case I’ll have rum and Coca-Cola
She said: Fine
And then in thirty seconds time she said
“I want to live like common people
I want to do whatever common people do
I want to sleep with common people
I want to sleep with common people like you
Well, what else could I do?
I said: I’ll see what I can do
I took her to a supermarket
I don’t know why, but I had to start it somewhere
So it started there
I said: Pretend you’ve got no money
But she just laughed an said: Oh, you’re so funny
I said: Yeah?
Well, I can’t see anyone else smiling in here
Are you sure you want to live like common people
You want to see whatever common people see
You want to sleep with common people
You want to sleep with common people like me?
But she didn’t understand
She just smiled and held my hand
Rent a flat above a shop
Cut your hair and get a job
Smoke some fags and play some pool
Pretend you never went to school
But still you’ll never get it right
‘Cause when you’re laid in bed at night
Watching roaches climb the wall
If you called your dad he could stop it all, yeah
You’ll never live like common people
You’ll never do whatever common people do
You’ll never fail like common people
You’ll never watch your life slide out of view
And then dance and drink and screw
Because there’s nothing else to do
Sing along with the common people
Sing along and it might just get you through
Laugh along with the common people
Laugh along even though they’re laughing at you
And the stupid things that you do
Because you think that poor is cool
Like a dog lying in a corner
They will bite and never warn you
Look out
They’ll tear your insides out
‘Cause everybody hates a tourist
Especially one who thinks it’s all such a laugh
And the chip stain’s grease will come out in the bath
You will never understand
How it feels to live your life
With no meaning or control
And with nowhere else to go
You are amazed that they exist
And they burn so bright whilst you can only wonder why
Rent a flat above a shop
Cut your hair and get a job
Smoke some fags and play some pool
Pretend you never went to school
But still you’ll never get it right
‘Cause when you’re laid in bed at night
Watching roaches climb the wall
If you called your dad he could stop it all
You’ll never live like common people
You’ll never do what common people do
You’ll never fail like common people
You’ll never watch your life slide out of view
And dance and drink and screw
Because there’s nothing else to do
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
I want to live with common people like you
Aa-aa-ah la la la la
Oh, yeah
Translation of Common People
Ella vino de Grecia, tenía sed de conocimiento
Estudió escultura en el colegio St. Martin
Ahí fue donde yo
Capté su atención
Me dijo que su papá era rico
Yo dije: En ese caso, tomaré ron con Coca-Cola
Ella dijo: Está bien
Y luego, en treinta segundos, dijo
“Quiero vivir como la gente común
Quiero hacer lo que hace la gente común
Quiero dormir con la gente común
Quiero dormir con la gente común como tú
Bueno, ¿qué más podría hacer?
Yo dije: Voy a ver qué puedo hacer
La llevé a un supermercado
No sé por qué, pero tenía que comenzar en alguna parte
Así que comenzó ahí
Yo dije: Pretende que no tienes dinero
Pero ella solo se rió y dijo: Oh, eres tan gracioso
Yo dije: ¿Sí?
Bueno, no puedo ver a nadie más sonriendo aquí
¿Estás seguro de que quieres vivir como la gente común?
¿Quieres ver lo que ve la gente común?
¿Quieres dormir con la gente común?
¿Quieres dormir con la gente común como yo?
Pero ella no entendía
Solo sonrió y tomó mi mano
Alquila un piso encima de una tienda
Córtate el pelo y consigue un trabajo
Fuma unos cigarrillos y juega al billar
Pretende que nunca fuiste a la escuela
Pero aún así nunca lo harás bien
Porque cuando estás acostado en la cama por la noche
Viendo a las cucarachas subir por la pared
Si llamaras a tu papá, podría detenerlo todo, sí
Nunca vivirás como la gente común
Nunca harás lo que hace la gente común
Nunca fallarás como la gente común
Nunca verás tu vida desvanecerse
Y luego bailar, beber y tener sexo
Porque no hay nada más que hacer
Canta junto a la gente común
Canta junto, y tal vez te ayude a sobrellevar
Ríe junto a la gente común
Ríe aunque se rían de ti
Y de las cosas estúpidas que haces
Porque crees que ser pobre es genial
Como un perro acostado en un rincón
Ellos morderán y nunca te advertirán
Cuidado
Te arrancarán las entrañas
Porque a todo el mundo le molesta un turista
Especialmente a uno que piensa que todo es tan divertido
Y la grasa de las papas fritas saldrá en la bañera
Nunca entenderás
Cómo se siente vivir tu vida
Sin significado o control
Y sin a dónde ir
Te sorprende que existan
Y brillan tan intensamente mientras tú solo puedes preguntarte por qué
Alquila un piso encima de una tienda
Córtate el pelo y consigue un trabajo
Fuma unos cigarrillos y juega al billar
Pretende que nunca fuiste a la escuela
Pero aún así nunca lo harás bien
Porque cuando estás acostado en la cama por la noche
Viendo a las cucarachas subir por la pared
Si llamaras a tu papá, podría detenerlo todo
Nunca vivirás como la gente común
Nunca harás lo que hace la gente común
Nunca fallarás como la gente común
Nunca verás tu vida desvanecerse
Y bailar, beber y tener sexo
Porque no hay nada más que hacer
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Quiero vivir con la gente común como tú
Aa-aa-ah la la la la
Oh, sí
Analysis of the song Common People by Pulp
Production and musical style
“Common People” was composed by Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker and released in 1995 as part of the album Different Class . Production was handled by Candida Doyle and Cocker himself, who achieved a distinctive sound by fusing pop and alternative rock . The instrumentation includes strummed electric guitars, a prominent bass guitar, electronic keyboards, and a steady drum beat that accompanies a driving beat, creating a melodic and strong atmosphere. This style is complemented by a song structure that combines spoken verses and catchy choruses , relatively innovative for the time.
Meaning of the lyrics
The lyrics of “Common People” offer a scathing critique of the upper class’ romantic perception of working-class life. Through the narration of an encounter between the protagonist and a wealthy student who wishes to live like an “ordinary,” the song questions the authenticity of her desire. Cocker presents the experience of lower-class people in a realistic light, illustrating how poverty is not an experience that can be simulated by taking a break from a comfortable life.
In the second paragraph, the song also echoes a feeling of frustration and anger. As the protagonist guides the young girl through the stark reality of being part of the working class, the contrast between her romantic vision and the harsh reality faced by many is highlighted. Evocative images of everyday life, such as struggle and suffering , underline that the experience of being “common” cannot be commercialized or explored without a genuine understanding of its challenges.
Ultimately, “Common People” becomes an anthem of resistance and authenticity . As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that the true essence of being part of the working class is not a trendy topic or a mere adventure. The decision to live a “common” life requires an acceptance of the struggles and history that come with it. Thus, Pulp not only critiques those who idealize poverty, but also advocates for the visibility and dignity of the experiences of those who live it day to day.
Comparison with other songs of the decade
Pulp’s “Common People” sits at the heart of Britpop , a movement that redefined music in the 1990s . In comparison to Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, which captured the spirit of grunge and youthful apathy, “Common People” addresses class struggle with irony and social acumen. Whereas Nirvana’s song represents a visceral rebellion, Pulp opts for a more elaborate and conscious critique of social dynamics. It can also be contrasted with Oasis’ “Wonderwall”, which although an iconic ballad, does not have the same incisive narrative that Pulp offers. “Common People” is distinguished by its ability to connect everyday experiences with political commentary, becoming an anthem for a generation that sought authenticity in a world of superficiality. In this sense, its relevance endures, still resonating in contemporary music.
Impact and legacy of Common People
Released in 1995, Common People has left a profound mark on music and pop culture. With its critique of class and consumerism , it became a working-class anthem, resonating with those who felt marginalised. Its blend of Britpop and social storytelling has inspired numerous artists, shaping British music for decades to come.
Even today, Common People remains relevant, used in protests and demonstrations to express discontent with the elite and the social system. Its lyrics, which invite reflection on authenticity and class struggle, continue to connect with new generations seeking a sense of identity and belonging in a divided world.
Personal opinion
As a huge 90s music enthusiast, Pulp’s “Common People” has always resonated deeply with me. The way Jarvis Cocker narrates the disconnect between social classes makes me reflect on the reality that many face. The raw energy of the song, combined with its catchy melody, evokes a mix of nostalgia and rage . Every time I listen to it, I feel a visceral connection to the struggle and desire for authenticity. The band perfectly captures the spirit of a time when music was a form of protest . “Common People” is not just a song, it’s an anthem that reminds me of the importance of empathy and solidarity in an often divided world.
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