About the song
Released in 1983 as part of the album “Let’s Dance,” “Modern Love” stands out as one of David Bowie’s most infectious and energetic tracks. David Bowie was renowned for his ability to evolve and reinvent himself, and this song exemplifies his flair for blending different musical styles and eras. The track, produced by Nile Rodgers, combines rock, new wave, and funk influences, creating a sound that was both contemporary and timeless.
“Modern Love” opens with a catchy, upbeat piano riff that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. The song’s rhythm is driven by a tight, syncopated drum beat, paired with a buoyant bass line, all of which are signature elements of Nile Rodgers’ production style. The brass section adds an extra layer of energy and excitement, making it a track that’s nearly impossible not to dance to.
Lyrically, “Modern Love” addresses themes of faith, love, and the human experience in the modern world. Bowie sings about the complexities and contradictions of contemporary relationships, expressing both a yearning for genuine connection and a skepticism about its possibility. The chorus, with its repetitive refrain “Modern love gets me to the church on time,” hints at the interplay between traditional values and the evolving nature of love and commitment in modern society.
The release of “Modern Love” came at a time when Bowie was experiencing immense commercial success, yet he continued to push creative boundaries. The song’s music video, directed by Jim Yukich, features Bowie performing energetically on stage, capturing the essence of his charismatic live presence. This visual representation of the song helped cement its popularity and highlighted Bowie’s ability to captivate audiences with both his music and his performance style.
Socially, “Modern Love” had a significant impact. It became a dance-floor anthem and a staple of 80s pop culture, resonating with a generation grappling with the rapid changes of the era. The song’s success further solidified David Bowie’s status as a musical innovator and a cultural icon. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Bowie’s talent for crafting songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
In summary, “Modern Love” is more than just a catchy tune. It is a reflection on the nature of love in a changing world, a showcase of David Bowie’s artistic versatility, and a track that continues to bring joy and reflection to listeners old and new. Its place in Bowie’s illustrious catalog is well-earned, standing as a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of music.
Video
Lyrics
I know when to go outAnd when to stay inGet things doneI catch a paper boyBut things don’t really changeI’m standing in the windBut I never wave bye-byeBut I tryI tryThere’s no sign of lifeIt’s just the power to charmI’m lying in the rainBut I never wave bye-byeBut I tryI tryNever gonna fall for (modern love)Walks beside me (modern love)Walks on by (modern love)Gets me to the church on time (church on time)Terrifies me (church on time)Makes me party (church on time)Puts my trust in God and man (God and man)No confessions (God and man)No religion (God and man)Don’t believe in modern loveIt’s not really workIt’s just the power to charmI’m still standing in the windBut I never wave bye-byeBut I tryI tryNever gonna fall for (modern love)Walks beside me (modern love)Walks on by (modern love)Gets me to the church on time (church on time)Terrifies me (church on time)Makes me party (church on time)Puts my trust in god and man (God and man)No confessions (God and man)No religion (God and man)I don’t believe in modern loveModern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern love (modern love)Modern loveModern loveModern loveModern loveModern love walks beside me (modern love)Modern love walks on by (modern love)Modern love walks beside me (modern love)Modern love walks on by (modern love)Never gonna fall for (modern love)Modern love, modern love