About the song
“Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads is an iconic track that stands out as a defining moment in the late 1970s rock scene. Released in 1977, this song was a part of their debut album, “Talking Heads: 77.” The band, fronted by the enigmatic David Byrne, brought a unique blend of punk, art rock, and new wave to the table, and “Psycho Killer” is a prime example of their innovative approach.
The song was written by band members David Byrne, Chris Frantz, and Tina Weymouth. It delves into the mind of a disturbed individual, capturing the essence of paranoia and inner turmoil with its haunting lyrics and minimalist yet compelling musical arrangement. Byrne’s distinctive vocal delivery, combined with the band’s tight instrumentation, creates a chilling and memorable listening experience.
“Psycho Killer” quickly became one of Talking Heads’ most recognizable songs. It didn’t just capture the attention of the punk and new wave crowd; it also appealed to a broader audience, thanks to its catchy bassline, driving rhythm, and Byrne’s stark, almost theatrical performance. Although it didn’t climb high on the charts initially, peaking at number 92 on the Billboard Hot 100, its influence grew over time. The song has since been covered and referenced by numerous artists and remains a staple in Talking Heads’ discography.
The song’s French lyrics in the chorus (“Psycho killer, qu’est-ce que c’est?”) add a layer of intrigue and have contributed to its lasting appeal. These elements, combined with the song’s edgy theme and Byrne’s eccentric delivery, make “Psycho Killer” a fascinating study in character and mood.
For listeners who lived through the era of punk and new wave, “Psycho Killer” is not just a song; it’s a piece of music history that captures the spirit of its time. Its continued popularity and frequent inclusion in pop culture underscore its status as a classic. Whether you’re revisiting it or hearing it for the first time, “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads remains a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
Video
Lyrics
I can’t seem to face up to the facts
I’m tense and nervous and I can’t relax
I can’t sleep ’cause my bed’s on fire
Don’t touch me, I’m a real live wire
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ay-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya, ooh
You start a conversation, you can’t even finish it
You’re talking a lot, but you’re not saying anything
When I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed
Say something once, why say it again?
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ay-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya
Ce que j’ai fait, ce soir-là
Ce qu’elle a dit, ce soir-là
Réalisant mon espoir
Je me lance vers la gloire, okay
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
We are vain and we are blind
I hate people when they’re not polite
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ai-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya, ooh