White Wedding
Billy Idol
Unveiling the Irony in Billy Idol's 'White Wedding'
Billy Idol's 'White Wedding' is a song that has captivated audiences since its release in 1982. The song's driving beat and Idol's sneering vocal delivery make it an iconic track of the 80s rock era. The lyrics of 'White Wedding' can be interpreted as a commentary on the institution of marriage and the societal expectations surrounding it. The repeated line 'It's a nice day for a white wedding' is delivered with a sense of irony, suggesting that the traditional view of a wedding as a pure and joyous occasion may not be all it's cracked up to be.
The song's verses seem to address a 'little sister,' which could be a literal sibling or a metaphor for a younger woman or a figure representing innocence. The questions posed to the sister about her actions, desires, and the company she keeps imply a concern for her well-being and the choices she's making. The mention of a 'shotgun' hints at the idea of a shotgun wedding, where a marriage takes place quickly due to an unexpected pregnancy, adding to the song's subversive tone.
The chorus's call to 'start again' suggests a desire for renewal or escape from past mistakes. This could be interpreted as a critique of the pressure to conform to traditional life milestones, such as marriage, without considering personal happiness or circumstances. The darker lines towards the end of the song reinforce the idea that the world is not as innocent or safe as it may seem, further emphasizing the contrast between the idealized 'white wedding' and the harsh realities of life.