4% Of Something

10cc's song '4% Of Something' delves into the challenging life of an artist striving to make a living through their craft. The repeated line, '4% of something's better than 10% of nothing blue,' serves as a mantra for the artist's perseverance. It suggests that even a small success or a minor achievement is more valuable than having nothing at all, especially when faced with the emotional toll of constant struggle, symbolized by the 'nothing blue.' This phrase encapsulates the artist's acceptance of small victories in the face of overwhelming odds.

The lyrics highlight the physical and emotional labor involved in the creative process. Lines like 'Working on a number, my fingers to the bone on my guitar' and 'my fingers to the bone on my piano' emphasize the dedication and hard work that go into creating music. Despite this effort, the artist feels underappreciated and undercompensated, receiving only 'a message from the King' at the end of the day. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the minimal recognition or reward that artists often receive from those in power or the industry.

The song also touches on the frustration and mental strain of trying to 'scratch a living' through music. The artist laments that 'all the man is giving me is the blues,' indicating a sense of despair and disillusionment with the system that exploits their talent without providing adequate support or compensation. The repeated refrain underscores the artist's resilience and determination to continue despite these challenges, finding solace in the belief that any progress, no matter how small, is better than stagnation or failure.