7. There She Goes - The La's
At first listen, this song seems like a romantic tale of a man chasing a woman who keeps eluding him. Sweet, right? Not quite. The “she” in the song is actually heroin. This revelation gives the song a much darker meaning. Lines like “pulsing through my veins” and “no one else can heal my pain” paint a clear picture of addiction rather than romance.
This song is a perfect example of how bright, upbeat melodies can mask deeply troubling themes. Despite its dark subject matter, There She Goes has been used in family-friendly movies like The Parent Trap and even during major political events, such as Margaret Thatcher’s resignation. The song’s subtle brilliance lies in its ability to convey multiple layers of meaning simultaneously. Its cheerful sound and catchy hooks have made it a pop culture staple, while its underlying message about addiction adds a poignant depth. The song’s ability to hide its true subject behind seemingly innocent lyrics is a testament to the art of songwriting, allowing it to function as both a devastating portrayal of addiction and a charming pop tune.
