Global Ambitions: The Quest to Rule the World - "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears

Trivia Alert: Did you know?

"Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was a last-minute addition to Tears for Fears' second album, "Songs from the Big Chair," and almost didn't make the cut!

The Story Behind the Song

Those smooth synth beats? Oh, they didn't materialize out of thin air. Back in the early 80s, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith of Tears for Fears were hunched over their keyboards, crafting their album "Songs from the Big Chair". The track "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" was a latecomer, born from the mind of Roland Orzabal and crystallized by producer Chris Hughes. With a spine-tingling guitar riff and an unshakable beat, this gem finished in just two weeks. The eureka moment was recorded like a fine wine, blending infectious melodies with thoughtful lyrics on global issues.

Cast & Crew: The Architects

Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith helmed the controls as both the masterminds and performers. With Mann behind the synths, Ian Stanley added his keyboard magic. Producer Chris Hughes? He was the ace up their sleeve, translating their vision into audio gold. These artists dared to push pop boundaries, creating an anthem that's still relevant.

Timeless and Buzzing: Why It Still Matters

The track dropped in 1985, a time when Cold War tensions bubbled, and societal change was the order of the day. "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" captured that zeitgeist— expressing the universal struggle for power and the desire for freedom. Today, its themes of ambition and control resonate just as powerfully, ensuring it remains a staple on playlists across generations.

Exploring the Lyrics

Decoding the lyrics feels like peeling an onion—layers of meaning. "Welcome to your life, there's no turning back," Orzabal croons, introducing a tale of power dynamics and existential choices. The verses reflect on governance and personal freedom, while the chorus—"Everybody wants to rule the world"—marks either ambition or a subtle critique of everyone's need for control. It's no simple sing-along; each line can prompt a mini soul-search.

Memorable Lines & Their Architects

The lyrical wizard behind these memorable lines is none other than Roland Orzabal. Iconic lines like, "Acting on your best behaviour, turn your back on mother nature,"—are mental chew toys that leave you pondering their implications for days.

Ever Caught Yourself Wondering?

Does everybody really want to rule the world? Or is it more about everyone wanting a sliver of control in their own lives? Is the song a call to arms or a cautionary tale?

More Than Just Notes

It's no wonder "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" finds its way into films, TV shows, and even covers by contemporary artists. Its expansive sound and profound themes build an experience that transcends time. By blending mesmerizing beats and biting commentary, Tears for Fears created a masterpiece that keeps listeners thinking.

P.S. Here's More Trivia for Your Playlist

1. Tears for Fears originally considered naming the song "Everybody Wants to Go to War". 2. The music video was shot in Southern California and features a 1965 Ford Thunderbird road trip. 3. Curt Smith, the band's lead vocalist, insists that the song is his favourite amongst their entire discography. 4. Fun Fact: The song’s distinctive opening drum machine beat wasn’t supposed to be in the track, but the happy accident got a thumbs-up during mixing.

Feeling inspired by the powerhouse that is Tears for Fears? Let us know what you'd like to explore next. Maybe some behind-the-scenes scoops or deep dives into other New Wave classics?