You must be evil

Chris Rea's song "You Must Be Evil" is a poignant critique of the media's impact on society, particularly on young and impressionable minds. The song opens with a father coming home from work to find his daughter crying after watching something distressing on television. This sets the stage for Rea's condemnation of the media's tendency to prioritize sensationalism over sensitivity. The father is appalled that such disturbing content is being broadcasted during times when children are likely to be watching, highlighting a lack of responsibility and respect from the media.

Rea's lyrics delve deeper into the motivations behind these media practices, suggesting that the pursuit of sensation and ratings often trumps ethical considerations. The repeated line, "You must be evil," serves as a powerful indictment of those who choose to broadcast harmful content without regard for its impact. The father wishes for the media executives to witness firsthand the emotional damage they cause, emphasizing the disconnect between those who produce the content and those who consume it.

The song also touches on the manipulative techniques used by the media, such as slowing down footage to amplify its emotional impact. Rea criticizes these tactics as not only unnecessary but also harmful, as they propagate negative ideas and desensitize viewers to violence and suffering. The father's disbelief that the media does not realize the harm they are causing underscores a broader societal concern about the ethical responsibilities of those who control the flow of information. Through "You Must Be Evil," Chris Rea calls for greater accountability and a more compassionate approach to media production, urging a shift away from sensationalism towards more respectful and responsible content.