Rolls Royce
Achille Lauro
The Glamorous and Tragic Allure of 'Rolls Royce' by Achille Lauro
Achille Lauro's song 'Rolls Royce' is a vivid exploration of the glamorous yet tragic lifestyle often associated with rock 'n' roll legends. The lyrics are filled with references to iconic figures who lived fast and died young, such as Jim Morrison ('Sdraiato a terra come i Doors'), Amy Winehouse ('A ventisette come Amy'), and Jimi Hendrix ('Suono per terra come Hendrix'). These references paint a picture of a life that is both alluring and destructive, encapsulating the duality of fame and excess.
The repeated mention of 'Rolls-Royce' serves as a metaphor for luxury and a high-octane lifestyle. However, it also hints at the emptiness and fleeting nature of such a life. The line 'No non è vita è Rock'n Roll' suggests that this lifestyle is not truly living but rather a performance, a facade. The song juxtaposes high fashion and luxury brands like Michael Kors with the raw, unfiltered essence of rock 'n' roll, creating a contrast that highlights the superficiality of material wealth.
Lauro also delves into the existential aspects of this lifestyle. Phrases like 'Voglio una vita così, Voglio una fine così' ('I want a life like this, I want an end like this') reveal a fatalistic acceptance of the consequences that come with such a life. The song's closing lines, 'Dio ti prego salvaci da questi giorni' ('God, please save us from these days'), add a layer of desperation and a plea for redemption, suggesting that beneath the glamorous exterior lies a deep sense of disillusionment and a yearning for something more meaningful.
'Rolls Royce' is a complex and layered song that captures the allure and the pitfalls of a life lived in the fast lane. It serves as both a celebration and a cautionary tale, reflecting the artist's own struggles and aspirations within the broader context of rock 'n' roll mythology.