Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: ska
Song Meaning of “Get-A-Job/Stand Down Margaret – Live 1983” by The English Beat
The English Beat’s song ‘Get-A-Job/Stand Down Margaret – Live 1983′ provides an uplifting message of resilience and strength amid a difficult economic environment. In a time when many people were struggling to find employment, the band provides clear advice to focus on finding a job despite the lack of work available.
The title of the song is a dual reference to the popular saying, “get a job” and also the character of Margaret Thatcher, the British Prime Minister between 1979 and 1990. The phrase “stand down Margaret” was a popular refrain used at protests throughout the UK during her 11-year term in office. The refrain is repeated in the chorus of the song, as a call to action for the people to rise up and fight against the oppressive economic conditions and social injustices of the Thatcher government.
The lyrics of the song are full of warmth, and the instrumental accompaniment is joyous. The zestful guitar riffs and light-hearted drumming provide a sense of optimism that the listener can grasp on to in the face of difficult times. The message of the song is clear – to carry on and remain hopeful that things can change. The band’s call to ’get a job and stand down Margaret’ encourages us to fight against injustice, while looking ahead to brighter times.