Hip Today

Extreme's song 'Hip Today' delves into the transient nature of fame and the superficiality of modern culture. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how quickly trends and public attention can shift, leaving yesterday's stars forgotten. The repetition of the phrase 'You'll be gone tomorrow' underscores the ephemeral quality of being 'hip' or trendy. This theme is further emphasized by the line 'Preoccupied with the latest fashion,' suggesting that society is constantly chasing the next big thing, often at the expense of genuine substance and lasting value.

The song also critiques the pretentiousness and artificiality that often accompany sudden fame. Phrases like 'A clever disguise that hides all of your pretension' and 'Sally's selling out her seashells for souls' highlight the compromises and sacrifices individuals make to stay relevant. The reference to Sally selling seashells, a twist on the classic tongue twister, serves as a metaphor for selling one's integrity or authenticity for fleeting success. The line 'Hope I don't die before I get old' echoes The Who's famous lyric, adding a layer of irony and a sense of urgency to the message.

'Hip Today' also touches on the psychological impact of chasing fame. The lyrics 'Dancing in your head, visions of rave reviews' and 'Believing all that's read, conceiving another guru' illustrate the delusions and pressures that come with public adoration. The song suggests that this relentless pursuit often leads to disappointment and a sense of being 'left for dead' when the spotlight moves on to someone new. Ultimately, Extreme's 'Hip Today' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of valuing temporary popularity over lasting significance.