Revolutionizing Industry: The Current Pulse of Our Nation

Industry's "State Of The Nation": A New Wave Odyssey

"State of the Nation" by Industry is a quintessential New Wave track released in 1984. This song, known for its distinctive synth-pop sound and politically charged lyrics, became a significant hit, particularly in Europe and South Africa. Despite its success, the band Industry remains relatively obscure in the broader music landscape, with "State of the Nation" standing out as their most memorable contribution to the genre. The song's themes of political and social unrest resonated with listeners during the 1980s, a decade marked by significant global tensions and transformations.

The Story Behind the Song

Industry's "State of the Nation" was a reaction to the political climate of the 1980s, encapsulating Cold War anxieties and the collective consciousness of youth during that era. The band, formed in New York City, had a relatively short career, yet managed to leave an indelible mark with this track. The song's origins are steeped in the high tension of the era, with the threat of nuclear war looming large in the public imagination.

The Masterminds

The band Industry consisted of Jon Carin (vocals and keyboards), Rudy Perrone (guitar), Mercury Caronia (bass), and Andrew Geyer (drums). Each member brought their unique flair, but it was Jon Carin, a musical prodigy, who later went on to work with legendary acts like Pink Floyd and David Gilmour, that truly shone as a creative force.

Why It Matters

"State of the Nation" remains pertinent today as it highlights issues of political instability and societal fears that are unfortunately still relevant. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of history and the enduring human concerns over governance and power.

The Deep Dive

Now, let's explore the song's lyrics. "State of the Nation" captures a sense of urgency and reflection. With lines like, "Another day / Another day's gone by / Now we hurt / Side by side," the track addresses themes of unity and shared struggle. Despite the bleakness of the subject matter, there's a call for collective action and resilience.

Notable Lyrics

A particularly striking verse is, "Somewhere in this state, we have all gone wrong / We were once a happy dream / But now we are just a nation in distress." Written by the band's primary lyricist, Jon Carin, these words offer a sobering critique of the direction society seemed to be heading at the time.

What Do You Think?

Given the song's powerful message, does it still resonate with today's audience? What are your thoughts on the modern parallels to the issues Industry was addressing?

Looking Forward

"State of the Nation" remains a timeless piece reflecting both the fears and hopes of a generation. Its hauntingly beautiful melody coupled with its profound lyrics ensures it will continue to be a relevant anthem for many years to come.

Did You Know?

Here's another fun fact: Jon Carin is also credited for co-writing "Learning to Fly" by Pink Floyd. Quite the leap from Industry's humble beginnings to working with rock legends!

What aspect of New Wave music would you like to explore next? Drop your suggestions, and let's keep the conversation going!