“American Utopia” What is the “utopia” suggested by David Byrne and Spike Lee?

From covers that reflect the times to Talking Heads

The story begins with the evolution of the brain and develops into the issue of communication between humans. When he was young, he believed that watching TV connected him to the world, so he bought the latest Sony TV with the money he earned from his band's record contract. Although I bought my TV in the 70's, the song " I Should Watch TV ", which touches on that topic, was written in 2012. Old topics and new songs are connected across time.

Furthermore, the importance of elections was discussed, and the issue of Black Lives Matter also came up. The song `` Hell You Talmbout '' is a cover song by singer/actress Janelle Monáe , and it sings out the names of black people who have been killed by police officers. This is probably the most powerful moment in the movie.

" One Fine Day " is a quietly moving song that is sung after a comment praising black writer James Baldwin's attitude of never losing hope. This famous song was included on the album he made with his ally Brian Eno in 2008, and at that time it had a folk-style arrangement, but this time it's sung a cappella, giving it a hymn-like sound.

“American Utopia” ©2020 PM AU FILM, LLC AND RIVER ROAD ENTERTAINMENT, LLC ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

There are some songs that would be nice to hear from the Talking Heads era. " I Zimbra " was previously removed from the main part of "Stop Making Sense" and included as a bonus track (and a medley song), but this time it is used prominently. The lyrics are based on nonsense poems by Dadaist poet Hugo Ball, but the song conveys the importance of having one's own will through the attitude of these artists who escaped fascism and tried to maintain their freedom.

" Born Under Punches (The Heat Goes On) ," which is played during the introduction of the members, is the first song on the masterpiece album " Remain in Light " (1980), which was a turning point for the Heads as a band. They demonstrated innovative sound creation that fully incorporated African funk rhythms, and became a sound that changed the world. The members on this stage come from a variety of backgrounds, so the world music-like world view of this song is perfect for introducing the members.

Also, as I wrote at the beginning, the popular song `` Road to Nowhere '' from the Heads era album ``Little Creatures'', which has an impressive jacket illustration depicting a ``better world'', suggests that the future can be seen. Although the theme is the unknown future, it also contains hope for the uncertain journey of life.

The song that appears twice in different versions is " Everybody's Coming to My House, " and you can hear a slightly ironic version and a heartwarming version (sung by The Detroit School of Arts Vocal Jazz Ensemble). Enjoy the different interpretations.

Spike Lee and Byrne collaboration