Kingpin

Album: Shangri La (2013)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This was inspired by a boxed set of The Wire, which Bugg was watching. He told NME: "I could see parallels between Baltimore and where I grew up, plus it introduced me to a load of drug references, which sparked the idea for 'Kingpin.'"
  • The kingpin is the pin at the center of the triangle of pins in skittles, bowling and other similar games. Its name arises from the fact that if struck successfully, the kingpin knocks down the others. Figuratively, the word is applied to the principal person in a group or company, including in this instance the person in charge of a criminal organization.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

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.

Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes

Chris Robinson of The Black CrowesSongwriter Interviews

"Great songwriters don't necessarily have hit songs," says Chris. He's written a bunch, but his fans are more interested in the intricate jams.

Brandi Carlile

Brandi CarlileSongwriter Interviews

As a 5-year-old, Brandi was writing lyrics to instrumental versions lullabies. She still puts her heart into her songs, including the one Elton John sings on.

Fire On The Stage

Fire On The StageSong Writing

When you have a song called "Fire," it's tempting to set one - these guys did.

Barry Dean ("Pontoon," "Diamond Rings And Old Barstools")

Barry Dean ("Pontoon," "Diamond Rings And Old Barstools")Songwriter Interviews

A top country songwriter, Barry talks about writing hits for Little Big Town, Tim McGraw and Jason Aldean.

Penny Ford of Snap!

Penny Ford of Snap!Songwriter Interviews

The original voice of Snap! this story is filled with angry drag queens, video impersonators and Chaka Khan.