About the song
“**Psycho Killer**” is a seminal track by the American rock band Talking Heads, featuring the charismatic and enigmatic lead vocals of David Byrne. Released in 1977, this song is a standout from their debut album, “Talking Heads: 77.” Known for its catchy bass line and Byrne’s distinctive vocal delivery, “Psycho Killer” has etched itself into the annals of rock history.
The song was written by David Byrne, along with band members Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth. “Psycho Killer” showcases the band’s unique blend of art rock and new wave, elements that would come to define their sound. The lyrics delve into the disturbed psyche of a fictional character, combining English and French phrases to add to the song’s intriguing and eerie atmosphere.
Upon its release, “Psycho Killer” quickly gained traction, becoming one of the band’s signature songs. It managed to capture the zeitgeist of the late 1970s with its quirky yet unsettling narrative, mirroring the tension and unease of the era. Though not a chart-topping hit, its influence was profound. The song peaked at number 92 on the Billboard Hot 100 but has since become a cult classic, frequently cited as one of the best songs of the era.
The track’s haunting bass line, played by Tina Weymouth, and the crisp drumming by Chris Frantz, provide a perfect backdrop for Byrne’s haunting vocal performance. The repetitive and almost hypnotic chorus, “Psycho Killer, qu’est-ce que c’est?” has resonated with listeners for decades, embodying the band’s knack for blending avant-garde art with accessible rock.
“Psycho Killer” has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in various films and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture. It remains a testament to Talking Heads’ innovative spirit and their ability to push the boundaries of conventional rock music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their music, “Psycho Killer” offers a thrilling glimpse into the genius of Talking Heads.
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