The lyrics of "Teenage Nervous Breakdown" by Little Feat criticize rock and roll, portraying it as detrimental to the body, soul, heart, mind, deaf, and blind. The song describes how rock and roll can drive people crazy, make them talk like fools, and start to drool. It also touches on the exploitation and deception in the music industry, suggesting that rock and roll is a plague on the human race and a terrible illness.

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Meaning of "Teenage Nervous Breakdown" by Little Feat


The lyrics of "Teenage Nervous Breakdown" can be seen as a satirical commentary on society's perception of rock and roll during the time the song was released. The repetition of the idea that rock and roll is "bad" for various aspects of human existence could be a reflection of the moral panic and fear that the genre instilled in some individuals. The mention of unscrupulous operators in the music industry highlights the darker side of the business, where exploitation and deception are rampant. The constant repetition of how rock and roll drives men crazy and makes them talk like fools may point to the idea that music has a powerful influence on behavior and can lead to irrational actions. Overall, the song seems to be a critical take on the perceived negative effects of rock and roll on society and individuals, emphasizing the need for caution and awareness in the face of its potentially corrupting influence.