Gum's (Everbody's My Friend)

“Gum's (Everybody's My Friend)” by Oyster Kids delves into the superficiality and materialism that often underpin modern relationships. The song opens with a sense of departure and disconnection, as the protagonist hears that a friend is leaving and notes that everyone seems out of touch. This sets the stage for a critique of how people often look and act the same, driven by societal norms and expectations. The line “Man, you look real funny, just like everybody” suggests a loss of individuality, where everyone conforms to a certain image or behavior to fit in.

The chorus, with its repetitive “Ooh-ooh” lines, emphasizes the cyclical nature of these shallow interactions. The phrases “Make money” and “Get lucky” highlight the materialistic pursuits that dominate people's lives. The protagonist seems to be caught in this cycle, acknowledging the humor in it with “Ain't it funny?” but also recognizing that nothing feels inherently wrong. This duality reflects the internal conflict between understanding the superficiality of these relationships and still participating in them.

The repeated refrain “Everybody’s my friend” underscores the theme of superficial connections. The protagonist notes how making money and achieving success leads to a facade of friendship, where people are drawn to wealth and status rather than genuine connection. The line “I'm making headlines again” suggests that the protagonist's success is public and celebrated, yet it’s clear that this fame is hollow, built on the same superficial foundations as the friendships described. The song paints a vivid picture of a world where appearances and material success overshadow true human connection, leaving the protagonist in a state of ironic detachment from the very society that celebrates them.