I Can Change

Album: This Is Happening (2010)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • On this track LCD leader James Murphy uses an acid beat to detail his marriage break-up. He told The Sun April 30, 2010; "I tried to do the best job I could with that song. I wanted to make it really beautiful and it's got a Jimmy Somerville falsetto. It's music of desperation. Everyone has their full range of emotions unless they're a sociopath. It's a desperate song but I don't think it's any more serious or heartfelt than any other."
  • At one stage Murphy had doubts about including this track on the record. He explained to The NME May 18, 2010: "I was constantly listening to the 'Sweet Dreams'-era Eurythmics stuff and Bronski beat and the first couple of OMD records. I was like, 'What's the worst that's gonna happen? People think I'm a simpering idiot? Fine.' But I panicked about it and I had Pat (Mahoney, drummer) come in. He loved it, and I trust Pat."

Comments: 2

  • Tony from San DiegoLove this song and album. James Murphy is the spokesman of Gen X, not Mr.Cobain. Can't believe there aren't more comments on this song.
  • Caitlyn from Royersford, PaRolling stone named this song #17 on it's list of the best songs of 2010, the album(This is Happening) #10 on its best albums list, and the video for drunk girls on the best videos list
    Alternative Press named the album as one of the 10 best of the year
    And the album came in at #3 on metacritic.com's best of the year countdown.

    Not bad for an aging hipster!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Dr. John

Dr. JohnSongwriter Interviews

The good doctor shares some candid insights on recording with Phil Spector and The Black Keys.

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"They're Playing My Song

Wilder's hit "Break My Stride" had an unlikely inspiration: a famous record mogul who rejected it.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Gary Louris of The Jayhawks

Gary Louris of The JayhawksSongwriter Interviews

The Jayhawks' song "Big Star" has special meaning to Gary, who explains how longevity and inspiration have trumped adulation.

David Paich of Toto

David Paich of TotoSongwriter Interviews

Toto's keyboard player explains the true meaning of "Africa" and talks about working on the Thriller album.

Jeff Trott

Jeff TrottSongwriter Interviews

Sheryl Crow's longtime songwriting partner/guitarist Jeff Trott reveals the stories behind many of the singer's hits, and what its like to be a producer for Leighton Meester and Max Gomez.