Meaning of "What's Happened to Soho?" by The Correspondents

The lyrics of "What's Happened to Soho?" by The Correspondents paint a picture of a neighborhood in crisis. Soho, known for its vibrant and diverse community, is slowly losing its identity and character. The narrator expresses distress as they witness the transformation of the neighborhood. The line "Oh no, what's happened to Soho?" is repeated throughout the song, reflecting the disbelief and sadness felt by the narrator and others watching the changes unfold.

The first verse highlights the push to sanitize and clean the area, erasing the history and essence of Soho. The mention of the council's corruption adds a layer of cynicism, implying that the forces behind the transformation may not have the best intentions. The arrival of a new Tesco supermarket symbolizes the intrusion of corporate interests into the neighborhood, further displacing the reprobates, or colorful characters, who once called Soho home.

The second verse portrays a sense of loss and nostalgia. The empty rooms echoing with the memories of a million drinks evoke a bittersweet sentiment. The brightest stars burning out and the flight of the subjects signify the departure of the creative and unconventional individuals who made Soho a haven for self-expression. The narrator acknowledges that even among the remaining frequenters, there are those who have nothing left to give, illustrating the toll that the changing landscape has taken on the community.

The final verse poses the question of where to go now. The narrator longs for a place that can foster the same sense of camaraderie and acceptance that Soho once provided. The family of outspoken praise, dandies, queens, and witty individuals seems lost, and the emptiness of their absence is palpable. The yearning to find a place where no one cares about what you do and where genuine conversations can take place is a poignant plea.

Overall, "What's Happened to Soho?" captures the pain and frustration experienced when a vibrant and diverse neighborhood undergoes gentrification and loses its unique character. The lyrics serve as a tribute to the individuals who inhabited and contributed to Soho's culture, while also expressing a deep longing for a place that can replicate the same sense of community and acceptance.