Meaning of "Pretty Vegas" by INXS

"Pretty Vegas" explores the dark side of fame, success, and the pursuit of pleasure. The lyrics portray a disillusioned individual caught up in a cycle of self-destruction and seeking solace in the allure of Las Vegas. The opening lines of falling asleep at the wheel symbolize a loss of control and a lack of awareness, perhaps suggesting that the person is not fully present in their own life. The repeated mention of losing grip and drifting over the line reinforces this idea of being on the edge, both literally and metaphorically.

The chorus of the song emphasizes that the glamorous facade of the lifestyle is not sustainable or fulfilling. The line, "It ain't pretty when the pretty leaves you with no place to go," suggests that the superficial beauty and allure of the lifestyle eventually lead to emptiness and a lack of direction. Despite the temporary excitement and thrill, the narrator warns that it ultimately leads to a dead end. The repetition of "it ain't pretty" throughout the song serves as a reminder of the hollowness and pitfalls of this lifestyle.

The mention of dreams and occupations being unimportant and insignificant regardless of what is being sold speaks to the idea that material success and external validation do not bring true happiness or fulfillment. The party being over and the road being long symbolizes the end of the excitement and the realization that this lifestyle is not sustainable. The repetition of falling asleep at the wheel and drifting over the line in the final verse reinforces the ongoing cycle of self-destruction and the inability to break free from it.

Overall, the lyrics of "Pretty Vegas" present a cautionary tale about the allure and emptiness of a superficial and fast-paced lifestyle. It exposes the notion that what may seem glamorous and desirable on the surface often leads to inner emptiness and a lack of purpose. The song serves as a reminder to prioritize genuine connections, self-awareness, and finding fulfillment beyond materialistic pursuits.