The Musician Insight

Appearing on the This Is The Life album (2007), Youth of Today is a track focusing on the conflict between different generations.

In the song, Amy Macdonald confronts what appears to be a family member from an older generation. The opening lyrics: “Maybe if you were some spearheaded guy […] thinking you’re bigger than me” establish their relationship as a complex and toxic one.

This situation is explored throughout the track: “And you say ‘my children weren’t the same, my children’s children they’re the ones to blame’”. The instrumental, consisting of acoustic and electric guitars, strings, synthesizer, drums and bass, immerses us in a bittersweet atmosphere. The strings, making their appearance in the bridge, give a more dramatic tone to the song.

Indeed, the singer pours out her heart, trying one last time, to communicate with the person: “And maybe, if you had a true point of view I would listen, but it’s just your one-sided feelings”. But this last attempt is in vain, for the other individual decides to stay blind to her arguments and pain.

Youth of Today is a beautiful track exploring the tough situation of the absence of communication and the weight that comes with it.

Photo source: http://www.silentradio.co.uk