Starship's We Built This City: Iconic Music Video & Lyrics

Hey guys! Today we're diving deep into a song that pretty much defined the sound of the 80s for a lot of us, and its music video is just as memorable. We're talking about "We Built This City" by Starship. This track, released in 1985, was a massive hit, topping charts worldwide and becoming an anthem for a generation. But what is it about this song and its accompanying official music video that makes it so enduring? Let's break it down!

The Unforgettable Sound and Message of "We Built This City"

When you first hear the opening synth riff of "We Built This City," you instantly know what song it is. It’s pure 80s magic, guys! The song itself is a powerful declaration of independence and a celebration of community, specifically the music scene. Starship, led by the dynamic duo of Mickey Thomas and Grace Slick, delivered a vocal performance that’s both anthemic and slightly rebellious. The lyrics, penned by Bernie Taupin (yes, Elton John's lyricist!) and Martin Page, with musical contributions from Peter Wolf, talk about building a place through music, a sanctuary from the mundane and the corporate world. It’s a message that resonated deeply with listeners who saw music as their escape and their identity. The song's blend of rock energy with pop sensibilities made it incredibly accessible, ensuring its place on radio airwaves and in the hearts of fans. It’s more than just a catchy tune; it’s a statement about the power of art and collective creation. The sheer energy and optimism embedded within the music and lyrics are infectious, making it a track that still gets people moving and singing along decades later. The arrangement itself is a masterclass in 80s production, with layers of synthesizers, driving drums, and soaring guitar solos that create a rich and immersive listening experience. It's this combination of strong lyrical themes, captivating vocals, and a signature 80s sound that cemented "We Built This City" as a timeless classic. The song’s initial success was phenomenal, hitting number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming the best-selling single of 1985 in the UK. It’s a testament to its widespread appeal and the impact it had on popular culture during that vibrant decade.

A Visual Feast: Analyzing the "We Built This City" Music Video

The official music video for "We Built This City" is a visual explosion that perfectly complements the song's high energy and optimistic message. Directed by Russell Mulcahy, who was famous for his work with Duran Duran, the video is a kaleidoscope of images that showcase the song’s themes of urban life, music, and rebellion. We see scenes of a gritty, industrial city, juxtaposed with vibrant, energetic performances by the band. Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas are at their charismatic best, commanding the screen with their distinctive styles. The video cleverly incorporates elements of the lyrics, showing the band performing in various iconic city locations, almost as if they are literally building the city with their music. There are also surreal and symbolic images, like Grace Slick on a giant chessboard, representing the strategic battles of life and the music industry. The visual narrative takes you on a journey, from the mundane to the extraordinary, mirroring the transformative power of music. The fashion, the hairstyles, the set design – it’s all quintessentially 80s and adds another layer of nostalgic charm. The video isn't just a performance; it's a mini-movie that tells a story. It captures the spirit of the era, the fusion of technology and art, and the burgeoning importance of visual media in music. For many, seeing the video for the first time was an awakening to how music could be presented and experienced. It was groundbreaking in its use of special effects and its dynamic editing, which kept viewers captivated from start to finish. The narrative structure, though at times abstract, successfully conveys the song's message about music's ability to shape and define our environment and our lives. The creativity and ambition behind the video production were clearly immense, aiming to create something that was not only entertaining but also artistically significant. It’s a piece of music video history that continues to be admired for its boldness and innovation. The blend of performance footage with conceptual imagery created a powerful synergy that amplified the song’s impact, making it a cornerstone of 80s pop culture.

Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Hit

Creating a song like "We Built This City" involved a collaborative effort from some seriously talented people. As mentioned, the iconic lyrics were penned by Bernie Taupin, known for his legendary partnership with Elton John, and Martin Page. The music itself was a product of Peter Wolf, who also co-wrote the massive hit "Eyes Without a Face" for Billy Idol. Together, they crafted a song that was both commercially viable and artistically resonant. Starship, evolving from the legendary Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship, brought their seasoned musicianship and undeniable star power to the track. Grace Slick’s unique vocal presence, combined with Mickey Thomas’s powerful pipes, created a vocal dynamic that was both distinctive and compelling. The production was handled by Peter Van Hooke and Bill LaVorgna, who were instrumental in shaping the song's polished, radio-friendly sound. They layered synthesizers, programmed drum beats, and added epic guitar solos to create that signature 80s arena-rock feel. The recording process likely involved a lot of experimentation to achieve the perfect blend of elements. The song’s journey from demo to finished product was undoubtedly a meticulous one, with each member contributing their expertise. The song’s massive success wasn't just luck; it was the result of careful songwriting, expert production, and the charisma of the performers. The way the song was structured, with its singalong chorus and driving verses, was designed for maximum impact. The collaboration between Taupin, Page, and Wolf ensured a lyrical depth and musical sophistication that elevated it beyond a typical pop song. This song represents a pivotal moment in Starship's career, marking their transition into a more pop-oriented sound while retaining the rock edge that their fans loved. The meticulous attention to detail in the arrangement, from the subtle keyboard flourishes to the thunderous drum fills, contributed significantly to its widespread appeal. It's a prime example of how creative synergy can lead to enduring musical masterpieces. The official music video also played a crucial role in its success, with its striking visuals amplifying the song’s message and reach.

Legacy and Enduring Appeal

Decades after its release, "We Built This City" continues to be a touchstone of 80s music. While it has sometimes been subject to critical re-evaluation and even mockery (it was famously named