Trouble Every Day

Frank Zappa's song "Trouble Every Day" is a poignant commentary on the social and political turmoil of the 1960s, particularly focusing on the media's role in shaping public perception. The song opens with Zappa expressing his frustration and disillusionment with the constant barrage of negative news on television. He describes a world where every day seems to bring new chaos and uncertainty, and the media's sensationalism only exacerbates the sense of impending doom. This sentiment is encapsulated in the recurring line, "No way to delay that trouble comin' every day," highlighting the inevitability of societal issues that seem to persist without resolution.

The song vividly describes scenes of riots and civil unrest, painting a picture of a society on the brink of collapse. Zappa's lyrics capture the violence and destruction that often accompany such events, with people turning against each other and their communities. The imagery of "stomp n' smash n' bash n' crash n' slash n' bust n' burn" conveys the chaotic and destructive nature of these riots. Zappa also touches on the racial tensions of the time, acknowledging the deep-seated discrimination and prejudice that fuel much of the violence. His line, "I'm not black but there's a whole lots a times I wish I could say I'm not white," reflects his awareness of the racial divide and his discomfort with the privileges and prejudices associated with his own race.

Zappa's critique extends to the media, which he portrays as exploitative and sensationalist. He criticizes the news for prioritizing shocking and violent stories to boost ratings, often at the expense of accuracy and integrity. The lines about newsmen competing to be the first to report on disasters and tragedies underscore the media's role in perpetuating fear and division. Zappa's disdain for the media's manipulation is evident in his sarcastic suggestion to "take your TV tube and eat it," rejecting the superficial and often misleading content broadcasted to the public. Through "Trouble Every Day," Zappa not only highlights the societal issues of his time but also calls for a more critical and discerning approach to consuming media.