Hey Hey, My My
Oasis
The Eternal Flame of Rock and Roll
Oasis's rendition of 'Hey Hey, My My' is a powerful homage to the enduring spirit of rock and roll. The song opens with the declaration that 'rock and roll will never die,' setting the tone for a tribute to the genre's lasting impact. This line suggests that rock music is more than just a style; it's a cultural force that transcends time and trends. The phrase 'there's more to the picture than meets the eye' hints at the deeper, often unspoken, influence of rock music on society and individual lives.
The lyrics 'You're out of the blue and into the black' and 'They give you this but you pay for that' delve into the darker side of fame and the music industry. These lines reflect the high cost of success, where artists often face personal and professional challenges that can lead to a sense of loss or disillusionment. The stark reality that 'when you die, no you don't come back' underscores the finality of life and the irreversible consequences of the choices made.
The refrain 'My my hey hey, rock and roll is here to stay' reinforces the song's central theme of rock music's immortality. The line 'It's better to burn out than to fade away' is particularly poignant, suggesting that a life lived intensely and passionately, even if it ends abruptly, is preferable to a slow, unremarkable decline. This sentiment echoes the rock and roll ethos of living life to the fullest, embracing both its highs and lows with equal fervor.