Axl Rose

Sr-71's song 'Axl Rose' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, lost dreams, and the longing for a past that seems more vibrant and meaningful than the present. The song's title references Axl Rose, the iconic lead singer of Guns N' Roses, symbolizing a time when rock music was at its peak and life felt more exciting and full of possibilities. The repeated question, 'Where did you go Axl Rose?' serves as a metaphor for the disappearance of that golden era and the sense of loss that accompanies it.

The song introduces us to two characters, Angel and Ricky, who are both stuck in the past, unable to move forward with their lives. Angel, living alone in East Baltimore, reminisces about a time when her life was filled with excitement and attention. Her current reality, marked by an eviction notice and loneliness, starkly contrasts with her memories of the past. Ricky, on the other hand, is a 37-year-old man living in his mother's basement, clinging to his heavy metal roots despite the changing musical landscape. His disdain for modern bands like The Vines and The White Stripes highlights his inability to adapt to the present.

The song reaches a turning point when Angel and Ricky meet at a karaoke night, bonding over their shared love for '80s music. Their connection symbolizes a mutual understanding and acceptance of their inability to let go of the past. The repeated lines 'He don't care he's stuck in the '80s / She don't care she's stuck in the '80s / They don't care they're stuck in the '80s' emphasize their shared nostalgia and the comfort they find in each other's company. Ultimately, 'Axl Rose' is a reflection on how people cope with the passage of time and the changes it brings, finding solace in memories and kindred spirits who understand their longing for a bygone era.