The Meaning Behind Song Titles That Arent in the Lyrics
Have you ever loved a song, but didnt know its name? Usually, song titles are intentionally the same as the lyrics in the chorus, so that listeners can easily figure them out. And the lyrics in the chorus are typically repeated several times, so that listeners have no excuse for not remembering them.But what about songs whose titles arent anywhere in the lyrics? How in the world are bands going to make money and get recognition if were wandering aimlessly searching for a song because its lyrics and title dont match?Apparently, its no big deal. Plenty of bands have become famous, and have had huge hits, with songs whose lyrics have nothing in common with the songs title. Here are a few:Baba ORiley by The WhoThis song is often mistakenly called Teenage Wasteland, because that phrase is repeated throughout the lyrics. Years ago, I heard a caller alternate picking ask a DJ to play Teenage Wasteland. The DJ said, Im sorrywe dont have that song. But I could play Baba ORiley for you, instead. With disappointment bleeding from his voice, the caller reluctantly said, Well….OK. The title, which is absent from the lyrics, combines the names of the bands philosophical and musical influences, Meher Baba and Terry ORiley. It has become one of The Whos definitive songs, despite the differing title and lyrics.Black Dog by Led ZeppelinWhat could a black dog possibly have to do with lyrics about a mans passionate attraction to a woman, and his subsequent regret for allowing himself to be used by her? Was it something disturbingly kinky? No. It was disturbingly simple: A black Labrador retriever was wandering around Headley Grange Studios while the band was recording, so they decided to call the song Black Dog.
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