Elämässä Pitää Olla Runkkua

Popeda's song "Elämässä Pitää Olla Runkkua" is a spirited ode to the raw, unfiltered essence of rock 'n' roll. The lyrics lament the rise of synthetic, electronic music, contrasting it with the genuine, soul-stirring power of traditional rock. The song opens with a nostalgic reflection on the past, where the music was real and the artists, like Jimi Hendrix, were true musicians who played with passion and skill. This sets the stage for the central theme: life needs a bit of 'runkkua'—a Finnish slang term that can be interpreted as 'guts' or 'spunk'—to be truly fulfilling.

The chorus emphasizes that life doesn't necessarily need material comforts like bread or wine, nor does it need political figures like presidents or kings. Instead, what it truly needs is the raw energy and authenticity that rock 'n' roll brings. This sentiment is further reinforced in the verses, which describe how real rock music comes from the soul, burning away the superficial and leaving only the pure essence of the artist. The song celebrates the unpolished, gritty nature of rock, suggesting that it is this very quality that makes it so powerful and essential.

Popeda, known for their straightforward and often humorous take on rock music, uses this song to champion the idea that true rock 'n' roll cannot be manufactured or controlled by commercial interests. It must come from deep within, from a place of genuine emotion and experience. The mention of Pate Mustajärvi, the band's lead singer, adds a personal touch, highlighting the band's own commitment to this ideal. In essence, "Elämässä Pitää Olla Runkkua" is a rallying cry for authenticity in music and in life, urging listeners to embrace the raw, unfiltered experiences that make life truly vibrant.