About the song
Tom Petty’s “Refugee” is a powerful anthem that speaks to the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Released in January 1980 as the second single from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers‘ third album, “Damn the Torpedoes”, this song quickly became one of the band’s most iconic tracks. With its raw energy and impassioned lyrics, “Refugee” resonated deeply with listeners, cementing Petty’s place as one of rock’s most compelling voices.
“Damn the Torpedoes” itself was a significant album in Petty’s career. Released during a tumultuous period marked by a legal battle with his record label, the album’s title reflects the band’s defiance and determination to overcome obstacles. The album was both a critical and commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard 200 chart and eventually going triple platinum. “Refugee,” as one of the standout tracks, played a crucial role in this success.
Musically, “Refugee” is a masterclass in rock composition. The song opens with a driving, almost hypnotic riff that sets the tone for the rest of the track. The rhythm section, anchored by the steady drumming of Stan Lynch and the pulsating bass of Ron Blair, provides a solid foundation for the song’s intense energy. Mike Campbell’s searing guitar work, combined with Petty’s distinctive vocal delivery, creates a sound that is both urgent and timeless.
The lyrics of “Refugee” are a testament to Petty’s songwriting prowess. They speak to the struggles and challenges that everyone faces at some point in their lives. Lines like “You don’t have to live like a refugee” convey a sense of empowerment and defiance. The song addresses themes of survival and resilience, encouraging listeners to stand strong in the face of adversity. Petty’s delivery of these lines is both passionate and sincere, adding an emotional depth to the track that resonates with audiences.
In terms of social influence, “Refugee” was more than just a hit song; it became an anthem for those who felt marginalized or oppressed. At the time of its release, the world was experiencing significant political and social upheaval. The Iranian hostage crisis, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, and rising tensions during the Cold War were just some of the issues dominating headlines. “Refugee” captured the zeitgeist of the era, reflecting the anxieties and hopes of a generation looking for a voice of reason and resilience.
Tom Petty‘s ability to blend personal storytelling with broader social themes is what makes “Refugee” such a compelling song. The track’s raw emotion and powerful message continue to resonate with listeners today, more than four decades after its release. It is a testament to Petty’s enduring legacy as a songwriter and performer.
In conclusion, “Refugee” is not just a song; it’s a rallying cry for anyone who has ever felt downtrodden or defeated. Its powerful message, combined with the Heartbreakers’ exceptional musicianship, ensures that it remains a timeless classic in the rock canon. For fans of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and for anyone who appreciates music that speaks to the human condition, “Refugee” stands out as a beacon of strength and resilience.
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Lyrics
We did somethin’ we both know itWe don’t talk too much about itAin’t no real big secret all the sameSomehow we get around itListen it don’t really matter to me, babyYou believe what you want to believeYou see, you don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee)Somewhere, somehow, somebodyMust have kicked you around someTell me why you want to lay thereRevel in your abandonHoney, it don’t make no difference to me, babyEverybody’s had to fight to be freeYou see, you don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee)Now baby, you don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee) NoBaby we ain’t the firstI’m sure a lot of other lovers been burnedRight now this seems real to youBut it’s one of those thingsYou gotta feel to be trueSomewhere, somehow, somebodyMust have kicked you around someWho knows, maybe you were kidnappedTied up, taken away and held for ransom, honeyIt don’t really matter to me, babyEverybody’s had to fight to be freeYou see, you don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee)No, you don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee)You don’t have to live like a refugee (don’t have to live like a refugee) Oh, oh, oh