The Lobby Man

Ska-P's song "The Lobby Man" is a powerful critique of the pervasive influence of lobbyists in modern politics. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a sinister figure, the Lobby Man, who operates in the shadows, manipulating and corrupting for the benefit of powerful corporations. The imagery of the full moon, sharp claws, and teeth sets a menacing tone, suggesting that the Lobby Man is a predator, always on the hunt for his next victim. This metaphor highlights the ruthless and predatory nature of lobbying, where the interests of the few outweigh the needs of the many.

The song delves deeper into the tactics used by lobbyists, describing the Lobby Man as a master of persuasion and corruption. He is depicted as a merciless negotiator who preys on the vulnerabilities of politicians, ensuring that legislation serves corporate interests rather than the common good. The repeated refrain, "The Lobby, The Lobby," emphasizes the omnipresence and insidious nature of lobbying in political systems. The lyrics also question why society allows such pressure and extortion from these groups, likening the situation to letting a wolf into a sheep's pen.

Ska-P further criticizes specific types of lobbies, such as the energy, financial, arms, and healthcare sectors. Each of these lobbies is portrayed as having devastating effects on society and the planet. The energy lobby is accused of exploiting the earth to the point of destruction, while the financial lobby is described as insatiable and legally fraudulent. The arms lobby is labeled as criminal, profiting from war and conflict, and the healthcare lobby is criticized for prioritizing chronic illness over genuine healing. The song concludes with a chilling image of the Lobby Man licking blood and disappearing into the shadows, symbolizing the ongoing and hidden nature of political corruption.