About the song
“Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads is an iconic piece of music that has resonated with audiences since its release in 1977. Led by the distinctive vocals of David Byrne, this track immediately captivates listeners with its pulsating rhythm and haunting lyrics.
Written by David Byrne himself, along with bandmates Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth, “Psycho Killer” stands as a testament to Talking Heads’ innovative approach to music. It was featured as the opening track on their debut album “Talking Heads: 77,” which garnered critical acclaim and marked the beginning of their influential career.
The song’s enigmatic lyrics, with lines like “Psycho killer, qu’est-ce que c’est?” (French for “What is it?”), add an element of mystery and intrigue, inviting listeners to delve deeper into its meaning. The combination of Byrne’s frenetic delivery and the song’s driving bassline creates a sense of tension and unease, perfectly capturing the persona of a troubled protagonist.
“Psycho Killer” quickly became one of Talking Heads’ signature songs, earning them widespread recognition and acclaim. It reached significant positions on various music charts, solidifying the band’s place in music history. Its infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics have ensured its enduring popularity, making it a staple of classic rock playlists and a timeless favorite among fans of the genre.
With its distinctive sound and unforgettable chorus, “Psycho Killer” continues to captivate listeners and cement Talking Heads’ legacy as pioneers of new wave and alternative rock. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the band for the first time, this song remains a must-listen for anyone who appreciates innovative, boundary-pushing music.
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