MGMT’s “Kids” became an anthem of 2008, a catchy and danceable track with a deeper meaning that resonated with a generation. This article explores the inspiration behind the song, its multiple music videos, and its lasting cultural impact. We delve into the lyrical themes, the band’s history, and the visual interpretations that cemented “Kids” as a modern classic.
From College Project to Global Phenomenon
Andrew Vanwyngarden and Ben Goldwasser, the creative force behind MGMT, penned “Kids” while attending Wesleyan University. Initially a playful jab at rockstar clichés, the song evolved into a thoughtful reflection on adolescence, societal pressures, and the complexities of growing up. Their debut album, Oracular Spectacular, catapulted them to fame, with “Kids” following “Electric Feel” as a chart-topping hit. The song’s success solidified MGMT’s place within the indie rock resurgence of the late 2000s, alongside bands like Vampire Weekend and The Strokes.
Alt: MGMT performing live at Coachella in 2008, showcasing their energetic stage presence.
Deconstructing the Lyrics: Nostalgia and Growing Pains
“Kids” is a nostalgic journey back to childhood, filled with both innocence and the looming anxieties of adulthood. The lyrics paint vivid images of youthful exploration and parental pride, juxtaposed with the realization that growing up involves confronting difficult choices and inherited burdens. Lines like “Control yourself, take only what you need from it” speak to the struggle for personal autonomy and breaking free from generational patterns. The song’s melancholic undertones are balanced by an upbeat tempo, creating a dynamic listening experience that reflects the bittersweet nature of coming of age.
Visual Interpretations: The Power of Music Videos
“Kids” boasts two distinct music videos that contributed to its cultural impact. The first, a student project by Jon Salmon, featured simple choreography and quickly gained viral popularity on YouTube. Its organic success led to Salmon’s involvement in MGMT’s official video for “Electric Feel.” The official “Kids” video, directed by Ray Tintori, takes a darker turn, depicting a toddler tormented by monstrous figures. This surreal visual narrative explores themes of fear, societal pressures, and the potential for corruption.
Alt: A still from MGMT’s “Kids” music video, showing a child surrounded by monstrous figures, symbolizing the anxieties and challenges of growing up.
The Nietzsche Connection: Battling Inner Monsters
The “Kids” video opens with a misattributed quote often associated with Mark Twain, but actually originating from Friedrich Nietzsche’s Beyond Good and Evil: “He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster.” This philosophical underpinning adds another layer of depth to the song’s message. It suggests that confronting negativity and societal pressures can lead to internalizing those same forces, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and conscious decision-making in the process of personal growth.
The Enduring Legacy of “Kids”
MGMT’s “Kids” remains a timeless anthem for young adults navigating the complexities of growing up. Its catchy melody, introspective lyrics, and powerful visual interpretations have ensured its lasting impact on popular culture. The song continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a reminder of the challenges and triumphs inherent in the journey from childhood to adulthood. By blending nostalgic melodies with insightful lyrics, MGMT created a song that transcends generations.
