Who Made Who
AC/DC
The Circuit of Creation: Decoding AC/DC's 'Who Made Who'
AC/DC's 'Who Made Who' serves as a philosophical inquiry wrapped in the band's signature hard rock sound. The song, which was the title track for the soundtrack of the 1986 Stephen King movie 'Maximum Overdrive', explores the relationship between humans and their creations, particularly technology. The lyrics personify technology, suggesting a reversal of control where the created now has power over the creator. The opening lines, which reference a video game, set the stage for this exploration of power dynamics, suggesting that technology can be as addictive and controlling as a game that 'takes you every time.'
The song continues to delve into the idea of technology's dominance over humans, with lines like 'The data bank knows my number' and 'Feel it when I turn the screw.' These lyrics evoke a sense of inescapable surveillance and manipulation by machines, a theme that resonates with contemporary concerns about data privacy and the power of tech companies. The chorus, 'Who made who? Who made you?' is a rhetorical question that challenges listeners to consider the complex interplay between human agency and technological determinism. It's a call to reflect on whether we control our creations or if they, in some ways, control us.
AC/DC, known for their electrifying rock anthems, often infuse their music with deeper meanings beneath the surface of catchy riffs and thunderous beats. 'Who Made Who' is no exception, offering a commentary on the increasingly blurred lines between humanity and the machines we depend on. The song's enduring relevance is a testament to the band's ability to tap into universal themes and present them in a way that resonates across generations.