Date Rape U

That Handsome Devil's song 'Date Rape U' is a biting satire that critiques the deeply ingrained issues of racism, misogyny, and systemic corruption within society. The song uses the metaphor of a university, 'Date Rape U,' to symbolize how these toxic behaviors are institutionalized and perpetuated. The lyrics suggest that these issues are not only accepted but are also funded and supported by society at large, as indicated by the line 'publicly funded by tuition and contributions from you, the listener.' This implicates everyone as a participant, whether willing or unwilling, in maintaining these harmful systems.

The song's lyrics highlight the normalization of these behaviors, describing them as 'banal indifference' and 'antics on our campus.' By doing so, it underscores how such serious issues are often downplayed or ignored. The mention of 'future presidents and doctors,' 'celebrities and rock stars,' and 'police and politicians' as participants in 'Date Rape U' serves to illustrate that these problems are pervasive across all levels of society, affecting all races and religions. This broad inclusion emphasizes that no one is exempt from either contributing to or being affected by these systemic issues.

Furthermore, the song critiques the economic and social structures that support and perpetuate these behaviors. The line 'you've got to pay to play, it's not for free' suggests that success in this society often comes at the cost of moral integrity. The song concludes with a grim outlook, stating that 'everyone successful will be going to date rape you,' implying that the path to success is inherently corrupt. Through its dark humor and sharp critique, 'Date Rape U' forces listeners to confront the uncomfortable realities of societal corruption and the ways in which it is perpetuated.