Love Rears It's Ugly Head

Living Colour's song 'Love Rears It's Ugly Head' delves into the complexities and unpredictability of romantic relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that initially seemed stable and sensible, but has taken a turn for the worse. The narrator reflects on how they always played the fool while their partner seemed to have it all together. This dynamic shift leaves the narrator feeling confused and emotional, especially when they are apart from their partner, almost to the point of tears.

The chorus, 'Love rears up its ugly head,' encapsulates the central theme of the song. It suggests that love, while often idealized, can also bring about unexpected and unpleasant emotions. The narrator's friends are concerned, thinking that the partner has cast a spell on them, indicating how love can sometimes make one act irrationally or out of character. The song also touches on the idea that love's path is unpredictable, as highlighted in the lines, 'Love's not so bad they say, but you never know where love is gonna go.' This uncertainty is a source of anxiety for the narrator.

The song takes a surreal turn when the narrator describes a nightmare of standing at the altar, only to wake up in a pool of sweat. This imagery underscores the fear and apprehension that can accompany deep emotional commitments. The recurring question, 'What you gonna do when it comes and gets you?' serves as a reminder of love's inevitable and sometimes overwhelming presence. Living Colour uses a blend of rock and funk to convey these intense emotions, making 'Love Rears It's Ugly Head' a powerful exploration of the darker side of love.