Cameras

Album: Sidewalks (2010)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This is the first single from New York dance pop duo Matt & Kim's third studio album, Sidewalks. Matt Johnson told MTV News about the track: "Well, the song's called 'Cameras' and the chorus says, 'No time for cameras/ We'll use our eyes instead,' which is a very Matt and Kim kind of message," Matt Johnson said. "But [it's got the] same sort of good, party vibe, big heavy beats, sing-along chorus. I decided we don't write songs anymore, we write anthems."
  • Kim Johnson explained the song's meaning to Spin Magazine: "That song is based on our culture, in which everything is so heavily documented. Fifty years from now, I'll wish we had documented more of our tours. But, really, it's just about having fun and being able to remember and reflect on it, without technology."
  • The song starts off with an unusual sound. Matt Johnson explained why to Spinner: "I get inspired a lot of times by different tones. I got this old '80s synthesizer called an MS 2000. That song 'Cameras,' the sound that it starts with in the beginning, which sort of sounds like a cat in heat or something - 'Wah, wah, wah' - that sound is ridiculous. I've never heard it before in a song, and I just wanted to use it. Sometimes different tones and things can inspire you to write."

Comments: 1

  • Caitlyn from Royersford, Palove the song, love the video, love this band!
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Michael W. Smith

Michael W. SmithSongwriter Interviews

Smith breaks down some of his worship tracks as well as his mainstream hits, including "I Will Be Here For You" and "A Place In This World."

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & Fire

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & FireSongwriter Interviews

The longtime bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire discusses how his band came to do a holiday album, and offers insight into some of the greatest dance/soul tunes of all-time.

Concert Disasters

Concert DisastersFact or Fiction

Ozzy biting a dove? Alice Cooper causing mayhem with a chicken? Creed so bad they were sued? See if you can spot the real concert mishaps.

Oliver Leiber

Oliver LeiberSongwriter Interviews

Oliver Leiber talks about writing and producing hits for Paula Abdul, and explains his complicated relationship with his father, the songwriter Jerry Leiber.

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.

Francesca Battistelli

Francesca BattistelliSongwriter Interviews

The 2011 Artist of the Year at the Dove Awards isn't your typical gospel diva, and she thinks that's a good thing.