Banned In D.C.

Bad Brains' song 'Banned In D.C.' is a powerful anthem of defiance and resilience. The lyrics reflect the band's experience of being banned from performing in Washington D.C. due to their intense and often chaotic live shows. Despite this setback, the song conveys a message of unwavering determination and self-reliance. The opening lines, 'Banned in D.C. With a thousand more places to go,' suggest that the band is undeterred by the ban and is ready to take their music elsewhere, even if it means crossing the Atlantic.

The chorus, 'You, you can't hurt me, me I'm banned in D.C.,' emphasizes the band's resilience and refusal to be silenced. This defiance is further highlighted in the lines, 'We got ourselves, gonna sing it, gonna love it, gonna work it out to any length. Don't worry, no worry, about what people say. We got ourselves, we gonna make it anyway.' Here, the band expresses their commitment to their music and their belief in their ability to succeed despite the obstacles they face.

The song also touches on themes of independence and self-sufficiency. The lines, 'And if you ban us from your clubs, it's the right time, with the right mind. And if you think we really care, then you won't find in my mind,' suggest that the band is not concerned with the opinions of others and is focused on their own path. The repeated refrain, 'Nooo! You can't afford, to close your doors, so soon no more,' serves as a warning to those who try to shut them out, indicating that their influence and presence are too significant to be ignored.

Overall, 'Banned In D.C.' is a testament to Bad Brains' unyielding spirit and their commitment to their music and message, regardless of the challenges they face.