Two Tribes

Frankie Goes To Hollywood's song 'Two Tribes' is a powerful commentary on the Cold War era, capturing the tension and fear that characterized the geopolitical landscape of the time. The song opens with an air attack warning, immediately setting a tone of urgency and danger. This warning is a direct reference to the constant threat of nuclear war that loomed over the world during the Cold War, a period marked by the rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. The repeated phrase 'When two tribes go to war' underscores the idea of two powerful nations locked in a potentially catastrophic conflict, where the stakes are incredibly high, yet the outcomes are often futile, as suggested by the line 'A point is all you can score.'

The lyrics also delve into the absurdity and surreal nature of the Cold War. Phrases like 'Working for the black gas' and 'Cowboy No. 1' evoke images of oil and power struggles, as well as the cowboy diplomacy often associated with American foreign policy. The mention of 'Van Heusen' shirts adds a layer of commercialism and superficiality, highlighting how consumer culture and media were intertwined with political propaganda. The song questions the values of the time, asking, 'Are we living in a land where sex and horror are the new Gods?' This line critiques the sensationalism and moral decay perceived in society, driven by both political and cultural forces.

Musically, 'Two Tribes' combines a driving beat with a sense of urgency, mirroring the tension in the lyrics. The repeated calls to 'switch off your shield' and 'follow me' suggest a desire for peace and human connection amidst the chaos. The song's refrain, 'We got the bomb,' serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power held by these 'two tribes,' and the need for a shift towards love and life over conflict and death. Frankie Goes To Hollywood uses this song to not only reflect the anxieties of their time but also to call for a more compassionate and connected world.