Beautiful Ones

Suede's song 'Beautiful Ones' presents a vivid portrayal of youth culture, with a focus on the hedonistic and sometimes destructive behaviors that can be associated with the pursuit of beauty and acceptance. The lyrics paint a picture of young people high on various substances, from diesel and gasoline to sex and glue, suggesting a sense of rebellion and a desire to escape the mundane. The repeated mention of 'the beautiful ones' serves as a chorus that both celebrates and criticizes the allure of this lifestyle.

The song's verses describe various scenes of excess and escapism, including drag acts, drug acts, and suicides, which could be interpreted as a commentary on the pressures of society to conform to certain standards of beauty and success. The reference to 'your dad's suits' implies a generational conflict, where the youth are trying to carve out their own identities while still being tied to the expectations of their parents. The mention of 'shaved heads, rave heads, on the pill' further emphasizes the countercultural elements of the era in which Suede was active, the 1990s, a time known for its rave culture and the rise of alternative lifestyles.

Despite the seemingly carefree and rebellious tone, there's an underlying sense of melancholy and critique. The song suggests that the 'beautiful ones' are trapped in a cycle of superficiality and self-destruction, with the line 'if your baby's going crazy, that's how you made me' indicating that society's obsession with beauty and youth can have damaging effects on individuals. Suede, known for their part in the Britpop movement, often explored themes of identity, sexuality, and societal norms, and 'Beautiful Ones' is a prime example of their ability to blend catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics.