The Killers, a renowned indie band hailing from Las Vegas, are celebrated for their monumental contributions to the indie rock scene that began flourishing in the 2000s. As they gear up to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their iconic debut album, Hot Fuss, in early 2025, it’s important to note that they are much more than just a fleeting trend in music history.
Their extensive discography is a testament to their versatility and enduring appeal. Among their numerous accolades, a particularly contentious lyric has ascended to legendary status within The Killers’ lore. This line sparked widespread interest not just for its poetic license but also as the crux of one of their biggest hits, which dominated Spotify streaming in 2008 and marked the beginning of a journey toward triple-platinum success, as reported by Far Out Magazine.
The Killers’ Most Controversial Lyric Explained & How Brandon Flowers Defended It
Follow Your Heart, Not Your Head—The Killers’ Message
The lyric in question, “Are we human, or are we dancer,” from the chorus of the captivating indie ballad has puzzled fans worldwide. The choice of the singular term “dancer”over the grammatically conventional “dancers”fueled debate about its artistic intent. The Killers defend the lyric as a crucial aspect of the song’s impact, emphasizing its artistic merit above grammatical norms.
The 2000s represented a time where artistic correctness often overshadowed genuine expression, a scenario not unlike today. With the emergence of influential platforms such as Pitchfork and the growing influence of the internet on pop culture narratives, The Killers’ thought-provoking lyric became an early example of virality.
Brandon Flowers, the frontman of The Killers, has addressed the ongoing critiques regarding the line “Are we human, or are we dancer.” Flowers reaffirmed that the lyric is indeed purposeful. He posits that the attention it garners only amplifies its success. In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, he shared, “I really care what people think, but people don’t seem to understand ‘Human’… They think it’s nonsense. But I was aching over those lyrics for a very long time to get them right.”
Furthermore, he expressed indifference towards conventional grammar rules, stating, “I think I’m allowed to do whatever I want.”This reflects a broader tradition of writers borrowing inspiration from iconic works like Lewis Carroll’s “Jabberwocky,” with Flowers seeking to engage listeners through innovative lyricism akin to that of the late gonzo journalist Hunter S. Thompson.
“I really care what people think but people don’t seem to understand Human… They think it’s nonsense. But I was aching over those lyrics for a very long time to get them right.”
“Human” was even recognized in a 2014 Blinkbox poll as having some of the most peculiar lyrics, surpassing even The Beatles’ “I Am the Walrus.” Flowers considered this a homage to Thompson’s quote, “America is raising a generation of dancers, afraid to take one step out of line,” prompting a reflection on individual autonomy in contemporary society.
While The Killers are renowned for intensely personal hits like “Mr. Brightside,” “When We Were Young,” and “Somebody Told Me,” “Human” transcends individual experiences, presenting a universal inquiry: what do they mean by “Are we human, or are we dancer?”
Decoding The Killers’ “Are We Human, Or Are We Dancer”
Embracing Authenticity: The Killers’ Philosophy
In “Human,”Flowers challenges the notion that we should passively accept the harsh realities of modern existence. Echoing the ethos of social provocateur Hunter S. Thompson, who called for human beings to embrace their individuality and daring spirit, Flowers’ decision to use the unconventional “dancer” was designed to provoke thought and deeper engagement with the song’s themes.
The song explores numerous social dynamics prevalent in 2008, many of which have intensified in the years that followed. Through its enigmatic chorus, The Killers invite listeners to reflect: will we conform, or will we dare to be authentic?
Leading by example, Flowers’ choice of “dancer” enhances the metaphorical stakes of the song, compelling audiences to question their understanding of order and compliance. By embracing this unconventional lyric, listeners affirm their humanity.
Sources: Rolling Stone, RadioX, Far Out Magazine
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