By: John Glover (MBA)
Bill Abernathy’s single “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” from his acclaimed album “MORE” is a fervent critique of political and social dynamics, delivered with a country-rock edge. Abernathy, known for his storytelling prowess, channels his discontent with contemporary political machinations into a sharply-worded and compelling musical narrative.
Each verse and the chorus work together to paint a vivid picture of Abernathy’s perspective on the current state of affairs.
Chorus
“Save your drama for your momma
You all should be ashamed
Save your drama for your momma
Stop shrugging off the blame
We’re all so sick and tired of all your politics and games
Save your drama for your momma
You’re driving me insane”
*The repetitive chorus emphasizes widespread frustration with political leaders. By urging politicians to “save your drama for your momma,” Abernathy dismisses their actions and rhetoric as juvenile and unworthy of serious consideration. The lines “You all should be ashamed” and “Stop shrugging off the blame” hold politicians accountable for their actions and inactions, calling for responsibility and integrity. The use of “insane” to describe the effect on the populace underscores the mental toll such politics take on everyday people.
Verse 1
“I see the folks in DC
Proclaiming all’s OK
Inflations just another
Transitory phase
So, take that long vacation
While the market takes a bath
Drowning in their policies
Cause they don’t ‘get’ the math”
Abernathy critiques the politicians’ downplaying of economic issues, specifically inflation, referring to it as merely a “transitory phase.” This dismissal is sharply contrasted with the real economic hardship faced by citizens, emphasized by the imagery of the market “taking a bath” and people “drowning in their policies.” The line “Cause they don’t ‘get’ the math” suggests a profound disconnect between policymakers and the economic realities of the general public, highlighting their incompetence or willful ignorance.
“The new green deal transition
Is booming all their stocks
They bought before they passed the bill
To maximize their profit
While Mother Earth is stripped and raped
And no one shows concern
For slaves and children digging mines
To post record returns”
Abernathy addresses the Green New Deal, suggesting that those in power exploit environmental policies for financial gain. The lyrics criticize how politicians allegedly engage in insider trading (“They bought before they passed the bill”), profiting from policies intended to combat climate change. The stark imagery of “Mother Earth…stripped and raped” and “slaves and children digging mines” points to the environmental and human cost of these policies, critiquing the exploitation and suffering that underpin the politicians’ wealth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkneUNKUG0Q&pp=ygUeYmlsbCBhYmVybmF0aHkgc2F2ZSB5b3VyIGRyYW1h
Verse 2
“They set the stage, to tell their truths
Dystopian and spooky
With fists held high, they scream their lies
To fire up their groupies
And if you’re not in their club
The I.R.S.’s lawyers
Will make sure that you’re audited
By Presidential order”
This verse describes the performative nature of political rhetoric, comparing it to a staged production. The term “dystopian and spooky” evokes a sense of fear-mongering and manipulation. The “fists held high” and “scream their lies” suggest aggressive and deceitful tactics used to galvanize supporters (“groupies”). Abernathy also touches on the punitive measures against dissenters, implying that those who challenge the status quo are targeted by powerful institutions like the IRS, adding a layer of authoritarianism to the critique.
Bridge
“Listen what they really say
Delusional and crazy
Claiming they can save the world
By spending all your money
They filibuster, pose, and lie
Proving there’s no doubt
That the next Pandemic in the USA is
Diarrhea of the mouth”
The bridge intensifies the criticism by calling politicians “delusional and crazy,” questioning their grandiose claims of saving the world through fiscal expenditure. The phrases “filibuster, pose, and lie” highlight the superficial and obstructive nature of their actions. The stark conclusion that the next pandemic is “diarrhea of the mouth” vividly portrays the incessant and harmful rhetoric spewed by politicians, equating their words to a widespread, infectious problem.
Abernathy’s lyrics in “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” offer a raw and unfiltered critique of political dynamics. The song encapsulates a deep disillusionment with the political class, portraying them as out of touch, self-serving, and hypocritical. Through sharp imagery and direct language, Abernathy expresses a collective frustration and calls for accountability, resonating with those who feel similarly disenfranchised by current political and economic systems. The song’s repetition and strong musical backing amplify its message, ensuring it leaves a lasting impact on listeners.
Musically, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” is driven by robust guitar riffs and a steady rhythm section, providing a powerful backdrop to Abernathy’s impassioned vocals. The arrangement complements the lyrical content, ensuring the message is both heard and felt.
In summary, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” is a potent blend of incisive lyrics and strong musical composition. Bill Abernathy successfully channels societal frustrations into a track that is as thought-provoking as it is engaging, further solidifying his reputation as a compelling storyteller and critic through his music. This single not only raises important questions but does so in a way that resonates deeply with listeners.
Published by: Holy Minoza
