The Meaning Behind The Song: Mediate by INXS
INXS is an Australian rock band that has produced some of the most memorable songs during the late ’70s and early ’80s. Their classic hit “Mediate” is a personal favorite for many fans who enjoy the band’s distinctive sound. The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make the song irresistible to sing along to, but what does it really mean?
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In this article, we explore the inspiration behind “Mediate”, its lyrics, and the profound message that the band is trying to convey.
The Inspiration Behind “Mediate”
“Mediate” was released in 1987, and it was a part of INXS’s sixth studio album, “Kick”. According to the band’s members, the song was inspired by a series of famous pop culture icons who had passed away, including Bob Marley, JFK, and Martin Luther King Jr.
The song was initially intended as a tribute to these late legends through their iconic phrases and quotes, which are used as the lyrics of the song. However, the band also intended to convey a broader message about the power of the media, particularly in shaping our opinions and perspectives.
The idea behind “Mediate” was sparked by an advertisement that INXS had seen on American cable TV, which promoted a rapid-fire series of slogans and catchphrases. This ad sparked the band’s creativity, and they felt that this was a reflection of how the media works in modern society.
The band wanted to highlight the idea that we’re bombarded with continuous messages, overload of information, and ideas, and how it affects our behavior.
The Lyrics of “Mediate”
“Mediate” has a unique and creative structure. The song’s lyrics are a sequence of phrases that are associated with famous historical characters and events.
Here are some of the famous lines and phrases from the song:
- “Hallucinate, desegregate, mediate, alleviate”
- “Goanna love it in your ear”
- “Especially in the fashion of the day”
- “Don’t you ask me the time of day”
Each line of the song represents a specific character or event, and it’s up to the listener to decipher its meaning and relevance to the song’s broader message.
The Message Behind “Mediate”
In essence, “Mediate” is a song about the power of the media, and how it shapes our perspective and understanding of the world.
INXS is trying to highlight the idea that the media can be both a tool for positive change, but it can also be a tool for destruction. The lyrics of the song emphasize the importance of being aware of how the media influences our opinions and understanding, and how we can make informed decisions rather than being led blindly.
The song’s title itself, “Mediate”, is a call for us to be involved in the process of mediation and negotiation, to strive towards peaceful and collaborative solutions.
Through “Mediate,” INXS is urging us to be conscious, to think for ourselves, and not be led blindly by the media’s influence.
Frequently Asked Questions about “Mediate”
1. What is the meaning behind the title “Mediate”?
The title “Mediate” is a call for us to be involved in the process of mediation and negotiation, to strive towards peaceful and collaborative solutions in the world.
2. Who were some of the pop culture icons referenced in the song?
INXS was inspired by Bob Marley, JFK, and Martin Luther King Jr. and used some of their most famous phrases in the song.
3. What was the ad that inspired “Mediate”?
INXS saw an American cable TV ad that promoted a rapid-fire series of slogans and catchphrases, which sparked the band’s creativity in writing the song.
4. What message is INXS trying to convey through “Mediate”?
INXS is trying to highlight the idea of being aware of how the media influences our opinions and understanding, and how we can make informed decisions rather than being led blindly.
5. How do the song’s lyrics reflect the broader message?
The song’s lyrics are a sequence of phrases that are associated with famous historical characters and events. They highlight the importance of being conscious of how the media influences our opinions.
6. What is the significance of the line “Goanna love it in your ear” in the song?
The line “Goanna love it in your ear” is a playful and cheeky nod to the band’s Australian heritage, where the word “goanna” means a type of lizard, and “love it in your ear” means to enjoy something.
7. What impact has “Mediate” had on INXS’s legacy?
“Mediate” has become one of the most resonant and memorable songs from INXS’s discography, and it’s a favorite of many fans and critics who enjoy the band’s distinctive sound.
8. How has the media landscape changed since “Mediate” was released?
The media landscape has undergone significant changes since “Mediate” was released in 1987, and the impact of new media technologies has continued to shape the way we consume and engage with media.
9. How can we be more conscious of the media’s influence?
We can be more conscious of the media’s influence by being discerning about the sources of information we consume, fact-checking news before sharing it, and engaging in critical thinking to develop a more nuanced understanding.
10. How has INXS’s sound influenced modern music?
INXS’s distinctive sound has had a lasting impact on modern music culture, and their innovative blend of rock and pop sounds has inspired many artists across genres.
11. What other songs should I listen to if I like “Mediate”?
If you like “Mediate,” other songs by INXS that you should check out include “Need You Tonight,” “Devil Inside,” and “New Sensation.”
12. What should I take away from “Mediate” as a listener?
As a listener, “Mediate” urges you to be aware of the media’s influence and the importance of being conscious of your own perceptions and perspectives. The song encourages you to seek out peaceful and collaborative solutions in the world.
