Three Tune Tuesday: 3 Songs about fame performed by 3 famous artists

The opening chords set a frenetic pace for Linkin Park to shout loudly about the rise and fall of fame. A repetitive cycle of building up, only to collapse in an instant.

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This song is a clear criticism of the volatility of fame and the way society treats public figures. The power relations and betrayal, both for those who are idolized and those who idolize, are also present in the intensity of this song.

“We're building it up to break it back down / We're building it up to burn it down” is the band's own outburst about their sudden rise, followed by criticism and rumors.

It is one of Michael Jackson's darkest and most confessional songs. And, calm down, it's not about Princess Diana. As was speculated in July 1988, when “Dirty Diana” topped the Billboard Hot 100.

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This Diana is a seductive and persistent character who pursues musicians in exchange for pleasure and social status. “She waits at backstage doors / For those who have prestige / Who promise fortune and fame.” The lyrics refer to real experiences of seduction and influence behind the scenes of showbiz.

However, through the intense repetitions of the chorus “Dirty Diana, no,” Michael Jackson highlights the struggle to resist temptation and maintain his integrity in the face of Diana's persistent advances.

This hit is a direct and ironic critique of the world of fame, contrasting the superficial glamour of success with the existential emptiness it brings.

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In an interview with Performing Songwriter magazine, Bowie said: “Fame itself, of course, doesn't get you anything more than a good seat in a restaurant.” He sharply criticizes the way young people have been convinced that anything is acceptable in order to be famous.

The verse “Fame, it's not your brain, it's just the flame / That burns your change to keep you insane” emphasizes that fame is not the result of intellectual merit, but rather a passing impulse that can destroy the artist's sanity and personality. At that time, Bowie was at the peak of his career and experiencing stardom in the United States.

This was David Bowie's first hit, dating from 1975. The song was co-written with John Lennon, based on conversations they had about Bowie's dissatisfaction with his management company. “Fame” is part of the album “Young Americans.”