Lost In Hollywood
System Of A Down
The Illusion and Disillusion of Fame: A Dive into 'Lost In Hollywood'
System Of A Down's 'Lost In Hollywood' is a scathing critique of the entertainment industry, particularly the false promises and harsh realities of Hollywood. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a place where dreams are both made and shattered, where individuals are lured by the glitz and glamour only to be exploited and discarded. The repeated lines 'You should've never gone to Hollywood' and 'You should've never trusted Hollywood' serve as a warning to those who are enticed by the allure of fame and success that Hollywood promises.
The song's narrative voice seems to be that of a friend or a mentor, addressing someone who has been seduced by Hollywood's charm. The use of phrases like 'vicious streets' and 'filled with strays' suggests a predatory environment where newcomers are vulnerable. The lyrics 'They find you, Two time you, Say you're the best they've ever seen' reflect the deceitful nature of the industry, where flattery is often used to manipulate. The term 'maggots' is a derogatory reference to the people in Hollywood, implying that they feed off the hopes of the naive.
The chorus, with its call to 'put your hands in the air and wave 'em like you just don't care,' is laced with irony. It mimics the carefree attitude often associated with celebrity culture, yet in the context of the song, it highlights the emptiness and superficiality of such a lifestyle. System Of A Down, known for their politically charged and socially conscious music, uses 'Lost In Hollywood' to expose the darker side of the entertainment industry and the cost of fame on personal integrity and authenticity.