About the song
Dire Straits, one of the most iconic British rock bands of the late 20th century, released their track “Industrial Disease” as part of their 1982 album Love Over Gold. The song stands out not only for its quirky, upbeat rhythm but also for its biting social commentary, a theme that has been prevalent in many of the band’s works, especially under the lyrical direction of lead vocalist and guitarist Mark Knopfler.
Released in a time of industrial upheaval in the UK, “Industrial Disease” is a satirical exploration of the chaos and dysfunction of modern industrial society. Its lyrics are a sharp critique of the widespread economic downturn, the decline of heavy industry, and the labor strikes that were prevalent in Britain during the early 1980s. The song paints a picture of a society in the throes of technological and economic change, and the anxiety and disillusionment that comes with it. With clever wordplay and vivid imagery, Knopfler discusses how people’s health—both physical and mental—are impacted by the machinery of modern life. The song’s title itself, “Industrial Disease,” refers to the ailments, both literal and metaphorical, that arise from a world dependent on heavy industry.
Musically, the track is infused with a playful energy, driven by its distinctive keyboard riff and the infectious beat that almost contradicts the heaviness of its lyrical content. This contrast between sound and message creates an ironic tone, further underscoring the absurdity of the societal conditions the song criticizes. Knopfler’s delivery is almost spoken at times, giving it the feel of a sardonic narrative or a news broadcast, which adds to the humor but also the seriousness of the message.
The song emerged during Dire Straits’ creative peak, when the band was shifting towards more expansive and ambitious compositions, as seen in Love Over Gold. This album was known for its extended tracks, lush production, and progressive rock influences. However, “Industrial Disease” is a more concise, punchy song compared to the sprawling epics like “Telegraph Road” from the same album. Yet, it retains the band’s signature ability to merge storytelling with sharp instrumental work.
One of the reasons “Industrial Disease” continues to resonate with listeners is its timeless message. Though it was written in the context of 1980s Britain, the issues it addresses—corporate greed, declining workers’ rights, and the dehumanization of labor—are still relevant today. The song speaks to the frustrations of people living in an industrialized world where technological advances are often prioritized over human well-being.
The song also reflects Dire Straits’ ability to blend entertainment with a deeper critique of the world around them. While some may enjoy the catchy tune and witty lyrics, others appreciate the song for its insight into the socio-economic conditions of the time. The humor in the song doesn’t mask the seriousness of the message but rather makes it more accessible, allowing listeners to reflect on the subject matter while tapping their feet to the beat.
In terms of its social impact, “Industrial Disease” holds a unique place in Dire Straits’ catalog. It wasn’t one of their biggest hits like “Money for Nothing” or “Sultans of Swing,” but it remains a cult favorite, particularly among fans who appreciate the band’s more politically and socially charged material. The song has been interpreted in various ways, from a straightforward critique of industrialism to a broader commentary on modern life’s absurdities.
In conclusion, “Industrial Disease” is a witty, sharp, and musically engaging track that captures the essence of Dire Straits’ knack for combining compelling storytelling with sophisticated musicianship. It’s a song that continues to be relevant, offering both humor and reflection on the challenges of living in a world increasingly dominated by machines and corporations. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Dire Straits or discovering their music for the first time, this track offers a unique insight into the band’s perspective on industrial society, making it a standout in their discography
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Lyrics
Now, warning lights are flashing down at quality controlSomebody threw a spanner, they threw him in the holeThere’s rumors in the loading bay and anger in the townSomebody blew the whistle, and the walls came downThere’s a meetin’ in the boardroom, they’re tryin’ to trace the smellThere’s a leakin’ in the washroom, there’s a sneak-in personnelSomewhere in the corridors someone was heard to sneezeGoodness me, could this be industrial disease?Caretaker was crucified for sleeping at his postRefusing to be pacified, it’s him they blame the mostWatchdog got rabies, the foreman got the fleasEveryone concerned about industrial diseaseThere’s panic on the switchboard, tongues in knotsSome come out in sympathy, some come out in spotsSome blame the management, some the employeesEverybody knows it’s the industrial diseaseYeah, now the work force is disgusted, downs tools, walksInnocence is injured, experience just talksEveryone seeks damages, everyone agrees thatThese are classic symptoms of a monetary squeezeOn ITV and BBC they talk about the cursePhilosophy is useless, theology is worseHistory boils over, there’s an economics freezeSociologists invent words that mean “industrial disease”Doctor Parkinson declared, “I’m not surprised to see you hereYou’ve got smokers cough from smoking, brewer’s droop from drinking beerI don’t know how you came to get the Bette Davis kneesBut worst of all young man, you’ve got industrial disease”He wrote me a prescription, he said, “You are depressedBut I’m glad you came to see me to get this off your chestCome back and see me later, next patient, pleaseSend in another victim of industrial disease”Ah! SplendidNow, I go down to Speaker’s Corner, I’m thunderstruckThey got free speech tourists, police in trucksTwo men say they’re Jesus, one of them must be wrongThere’s a protest singer, he’s singing a protest songHe says, “They wanna have a war, keep their factoriesThey wanna have a war to keep us on our kneesThey wanna have a war to stop us buying JapaneseThey wanna have a war to stop industrial diseaseThey’re pointing out the enemy to keep you deaf and blindThey wanna sap your energy, incarcerate your mindGive ya “Rule Britannia”, gassy beer, page threeTwo weeks in España and Sunday striptease”Meanwhile, the first Jesus says “I’ll cure it soonAbolish Monday mornings and Friday afternoons”The other one’s out on hunger strike, he’s dying by degreesHow come Jesus gets industrial disease?