The Iconic Song that made Squeeze “Cool for Cats”: The Story behind the Lyrics
Table of Contents
The Birth of Squeeze
Squeeze has been a stalwart of British pop rock since the late 1970s, renowned for their musicianship, wit, and clever songwriting. The band was formed by Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, two songwriters from South London, who spent their formative years playing and writing together. In their early days, Squeeze was a quintet that featured lead singer Paul Carrack. Their first self-titled album, which was released in 1978, was an instant success, reaching the Top 10 in the UK album chart.
The Making of “Cool for Cats”
Following the success of their debut album, Squeeze began work on their second album, “Cool for Cats.” The title track gave them their first Top Ten hit in the UK and remains one of their most popular songs to this day. The lyrics of “Cool for Cats” tell the story of a man called Harry who is always in the wrong place at the wrong time, but seems to get out of trouble relatively unscathed. It’s a playful and catchy tune that showcases the band’s pop sensibilities as well as their ability to tell a story through song.
The Hidden Meanings in the Lyrics
While the song’s lyrics may seem light-hearted and straightforward, they actually have a deeper meaning. “Cool for Cats” is a slang term that was popularized in the 1950s to describe someone who was fashionable, suave, and could hold their own in any situation. The song takes this idea and applies it to Harry, who is a bit of a rogue but always manages to come out on top. The lyrics also reference British cultural touchstones like the TV show “The Avengers,” which was a favorite of Difford and Tilbrook growing up.
The Relevance of The Song and Its Impact
“Cool for Cats” has stood the test of time and remains one of Squeeze’s most beloved songs. It’s been covered by other artists and used in movies and TV shows, cementing its place in pop culture history. The song’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics have helped to keep it relevant, even as the musical landscape has changed over the years.
The Aftermath of the Song
“Cool for Cats” was just the beginning of a long and successful career for Squeeze. The band would go on to release a number of other hit songs and albums, including “Up the Junction,” “Tempted,” and “Argybargy.” Their blend of pop, rock, and new wave influences continues to inspire musicians to this day. In 2019, Squeeze released their 15th studio album, “The Knowledge,” showing that even after 40 years in the business, they’re still making great music.
The Conclusion
“Cool for Cats” is a song that has transcended time and place to become an iconic part of British pop culture. Its catchy tune, clever lyrics, and relatable story have cemented it as a classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. Squeeze may have had a long and storied career, but it all started with this song that made them “cool for cats.”
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