About the song
The Who’s “Another Tricky Day,” released in 1981 on their album Face Dances, offers a unique perspective on navigating life’s difficulties. While not a typical Who anthem filled with teenage angst, it delves into themes of resilience and the enduring power of music in the face of everyday struggles.
Inspiration from the Band
According to Pete Townshend, the song’s inspiration stemmed from keyboardist John Bundrick, who was touring with The Who at the time. Bundrick’s positive outlook, even amidst the challenges of the road, resonated with Townshend, prompting him to capture that spirit in a song.
Themes of Resilience and Perspective
The song’s central theme revolves around navigating the trials and tribulations of daily life. The lyrics, particularly the line “there ain’t no social crisis, it’s just another tricky day,” downplay the idea of a major catastrophe. Instead, they suggest a more pragmatic approach, viewing challenges as hurdles to overcome rather than insurmountable problems. This perspective resonates with listeners who face their own set of “tricky days.”
Music as a Source of Strength
Despite the seemingly dismissive tone towards social issues, “Another Tricky Day” subtly celebrates the power of music to uplift the spirit. The lyrics proclaim, “rock & roll will never die,” signifying the enduring power of music as a source of comfort and inspiration. This theme aligns with The Who’s long-standing association with anthemic rock music that serves as a rallying cry for facing life’s challenges head-on.
A Complex and Defiant Tune
Critics have described “Another Tricky Day” as a “defiant yet complex tune.” While the song offers a message of resilience, some interpretations suggest a layer of pessimism beneath the surface. The seemingly dismissive attitude towards social issues can be seen as a reflection of a disillusioned world view.
Enduring Appeal
Despite its complexities, “Another Tricky Day” remains a compelling listen. The song’s defiant spirit and the power it attributes to music resonate with fans across generations. Whether viewed as a call to face challenges with a positive outlook or a reflection of a world-weary perspective, the song offers a unique window into The Who’s evolution and their enduring ability to capture the complexities of life.
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Lyrics
You can’t always get it
When you really want it
You can’t always get it at all
Just because there’s space
In your life it’s a waste
To spend your time why don’t you wait for the call
(Just gotta get used to it)
We all get it in the end
(Just gotta get used to it)
We go down and we come up again
(Just gotta get used to it)
You irritate me my friend
(This is no social crisis)
This is you having fun
(No crisis)
Getting burned by the sun
(This is true)
This is no social crisis
Just another tricky day for you
You can always get higher
Just because you aspire
You could expire even knowing
Don’t push the hands
Just hang on to the band
Then you can dance while your knowledge is growing
(It could happen anytime)
You can’t expect to never cry
(Patience is priceless)
Not when you try to fly so high
(Just stay on that line)
Rock and roll will never die
(This is no social crisis)
This is you having fun
(No crisis)
Getting burned by the sun
(This is true)
This is no social crisis
Just another tricky day for you
Another tricky day
Another gently nagging pain
What the papers say
Just seems to bring down heavier rain
The world seems in a spiral
Life seems such a worthless title
But break out and start a fire y’all
It’s all here on the vinyl
(No crisis)
Just you having fun
(There’s no crisis)
Getting burned by the sun
(You got no crisis, this is true)
This is no social crisis
Just another tricky day for you
You can’t always get it
When you really want it
You can’t always get it at all
Just because there’s space
In your life it’s a waste
To spend your time why don’t you wait for the call
(Just gotta get used to it)
Gotta get used to waiting
(Just gotta get used to it)
You know how the ice is
(Just gotta get used to it)
It’s thin where you’re skating
(This is no social crisis)
This is you having fun
(No crisis)
Getting burned by the sun
(This is true)
This is no social crisis
Just another tricky day for you fella
Just another tricky day…for you
Just another tricky day…for you
Just another tricky day
Just another tricky day for you
You’ll get through