Young Guns

Wham!'s 'Young Guns' is a vibrant and energetic song that delves into the tension between youthful freedom and the responsibilities of adult life, particularly marriage. The song is a conversation between two friends, one of whom is shocked to find that the other has settled down and gotten engaged. The lyrics are filled with a sense of disbelief and concern, as the narrator tries to convince his friend that marriage will only lead to a loss of freedom and fun.

The song's chorus, 'Young guns, having some fun / Crazy ladies keep 'em on the run,' emphasizes the carefree lifestyle that the narrator cherishes. He sees emotional ties and commitments as dangerous, something that wise guys should avoid. The repeated line 'Death by matrimony!' underscores his belief that marriage is a trap that will end the fun and freedom of youth. The narrator's perspective is clear: he values his single, carefree life and is wary of the changes that come with settling down.

Cultural references in the song highlight the societal expectations of the time, particularly the pressure to marry young and start a family. The line 'A daddy by the time you're twenty-one' reflects the norm of early marriage and parenthood, which the narrator views with skepticism. The song captures the spirit of the early 1980s, a time when young people were beginning to challenge traditional norms and seek more personal freedom. Wham!'s upbeat and catchy musical style adds to the song's appeal, making it a memorable anthem for those who value their independence.

The dialogue between the characters in the song adds a layer of drama and realism, as the friend's fiancée expresses her disdain for the narrator, calling him a 'creepy guy.' This tension highlights the clash between the old life of carefree fun and the new life of responsibility and commitment. The song ultimately leaves the listener with a sense of the inevitable changes that come with growing up, and the bittersweet realization that not everyone is ready to embrace them.