Meaning of "Underground" by Lindsey Buckingham

In these lyrics, Lindsey Buckingham explores the conflict between artistic integrity and the demands of the music industry. The singer seems disillusioned with the idea of performing a song without truly living its message, highlighting the disconnect between expression and authenticity. The reference to wandering underground could symbolize a desire to escape the superficiality of the mainstream music world and reconnect with a more genuine expression of creativity. The mention of hearing fifteen seconds being enough suggests the shallow nature of the industry, where quick judgments are made based on marketability rather than artistic merit. The internal struggle between love and ambition is also evident in the line about selling one's heart for the dreams in their head, reflecting the sacrifice artists often make for success. Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of alienation from the commercial music scene and a yearning for artistic freedom and self-expression.