Surprise Surprise

Album: Dead Silence (2012)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • According to Billy Talent guitarist Ian D'Sa, this tongue-in-cheek single deals with the fake reality implemented by social networks and crass commercialism. "It's definitely more pertinent to what's happening right now than anything we've done before," he told Spinner. "The whole hipster counter culture phenomenon is just being sold to them by advertisers. It's very different from any other counter culture of the past because it's based around money, it's based around advertising and American Apparel."
  • Vocalist Ben Kowalewicz explained that the song is typical of the subject matter of Dead Silence. "A lot of the album has to do with how important it is not to get caught up in material culture, internet culture and all those things that distract us from what's real," he said, "Life is real. So go for a walk, turn your phone off. Go get some sun on your face. Get some perspective."

Comments: 1

  • Emmy from Bellville, Onahhhhhh I Love Ian d'sa
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Andrew Farriss of INXS

Andrew Farriss of INXSSongwriter Interviews

Andrew Farriss on writing with Michael Hutchence, the stories behind "Mystify" and other INXS hits, and his country-flavored debut solo album.

Danny Kortchmar

Danny KortchmarSongwriter Interviews

Danny played guitar on Sweet Baby James, Tapestry, and Running On Empty. He also co-wrote many hit songs, including "Dirty Laundry," "Sunset Grill" and "Tender Is The Night."

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"

Chris Frantz - "Genius of Love"They're Playing My Song

Chris and his wife Tina were the rhythm section for Talking Heads when they formed The Tom Tom Club. "Genius of Love" was their blockbuster, but David Byrne only mentioned it once.

Dean Pitchford

Dean PitchfordSongwriter Interviews

Dean wrote the screenplay and lyrics to all the songs in Footloose. His other hits include "Fame" and "All The Man That I Need."

Who's Johnny, And Why Does He Show Up In So Many Songs

Who's Johnny, And Why Does He Show Up In So Many SongsSong Writing

For songwriters, Johnny represents the American man. He has been angry, cool, magic, a rebel and, of course, marching home.

Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy and Black Star Riders

Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy and Black Star RidersSongwriter Interviews

Writing with Phil Lynott, Scott saw their ill-fated frontman move to a darker place in his life and lyrics.