Debate: Does the beat make the bad song good, or is it the lyrics?

I've been going back and forth on this all week after listening to that old track 'I Ran' by A Flock of Seagulls. The drum machine on that song is so clunky and off, it's almost painful. But the lyrics are just as weird talking about running so far away. Which part actually makes it so bad it's good for you guys? I had a buddy who swears it's the beat that carries the whole thing, but I think the nonsense lyrics are what make me laugh. What do you all think matters more for these so-bad-they're-good songs?

2 comments

2 Comments

robin77714d ago

My buddy once tried to argue that the drum machine on "I Ran" was genius and I nearly choked on my beer.

linda_mason8214d ago

Roll your eyes back with me here @robin777... I mean, it's a fun little pop song but let's not act like we're talking about some groundbreaking studio wizardry. People get way too worked up over stuff that's not that deep, it's just a catchy 80s tune with a bouncy beat. I get that your buddy was probably just trying to be clever or wind you up, but choking on your beer seems a bit much. Maybe just tell him the drum machine is fine for what it is and move on, no need to turn it into a whole debate.