The Burden Of Being Wonderful

Steel Panther's song "The Burden Of Being Wonderful" is a satirical and humorous exploration of vanity and self-obsession. The lyrics are delivered from the perspective of someone who believes they are exceptionally attractive and talented, to the point where it becomes a 'burden.' This exaggerated self-praise is a hallmark of Steel Panther's style, known for their comedic and often over-the-top approach to glam metal.

The song opens with the protagonist questioning why they should be allowed to be so attractive in a world filled with 'ugly faces.' This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the narrator continues to boast about their 'perfect body' and 'perfect face,' claiming to be the epitome of God's best work. The use of hyperbole here is evident, as the narrator's self-admiration reaches almost absurd levels, making it clear that the song is meant to be taken with a grain of salt.

As the song progresses, the narrator laments the loneliness that comes with being so 'wonderful.' Friends don't stick around because they feel inferior, and people seem to hate the narrator as if they had a choice in being so perfect. This part of the song adds a layer of irony, as the narrator's self-absorption is portrayed as both a blessing and a curse. The line 'It's a burden being wonderful like me' encapsulates this duality, highlighting the isolating nature of extreme vanity.

The final verses continue the theme of exaggerated self-importance, with the narrator comparing themselves to a Maserati in a world of Kias and claiming that even Leonardo da Vinci would be jealous of their talents. The song concludes with a nod to Stevie Wonder, suggesting that a world full of people like him would never see the narrator's brilliance. This playful and self-aware approach makes the song a clever critique of narcissism, wrapped in Steel Panther's signature blend of humor and rock 'n' roll bravado.