Meaning of "Down In Hollywood" by Ry Cooder

The lyrics of "Down In Hollywood" paint a vivid picture of the seedy underbelly of Hollywood, highlighting the temptations, dangers, and consequences of getting caught up in that lifestyle. The narrator warns of the imminent bad blues and chaos that one can experience in the city, from violence on the streets to encounters with prostitutes and pimps. The song serves as a cautionary tale, advising listeners to keep moving and not get pulled into the darkness that lurks in Hollywood. It exposes the harsh realities of the city, where dreams can quickly turn into nightmares. The repeated refrain of "going down in Hollywood" emphasizes the downward spiral that awaits those who get entangled in the darkness of the city.