Meaning of How D’ya Keep Your Credibility? by Culture Club

In the colorful world of Culture Club, where individuality reigns supreme and societal norms are challenged, the song 'How D’ya Keep Your Credibility?' poses an intriguing question – one that prompts us to delve deeper into the themes and messages hidden beneath the surface. As we embark on this lyrical journey, we find ourselves immersed in a world that celebrates self-expression, insightfully questioning the constructs of credibility and the pursuit of personal authenticity.From the very onset, the song acknowledges the historical context of drag queens and the significant role they play in the LGBTQ+ community. By addressing Marilyn, a specific individual, Culture Club pays homage to all drag queens, exalting their ability to embrace their true selves with unapologetic flair. The lyrics acknowledge that times have changed and that the status quo is no longer adhered to. Here, we find the first theme emerging: the evolution of identity and the pressure to conform.The line "We're wearing stilettos and talking too fast" reflects the fast-paced nature of contemporary society, where appearances and style can often take precedence over substance. This theme is further developed in the subsequent lyric, "Passing the mirror hung up in pose," highlighting the performative nature of modern life. It emphasizes the pressure individuals face to project a certain image and maintain credibility in a world that often values style over substance.As the song progresses, we encounter a contrast between the public and private personas of fame. The references to lunch with Janet Street Porter and Marilyn's nose suggest a glamorous and superficial lifestyle. However, intertwined with this glamorous façade is an undercurrent of sadness – "But this life is a baby, so sad when it grows" – evoking the fleeting and often fleeting nature of credibility and fame. This juxtaposition develops the theme of authenticity and the delicate balance between projecting an image and maintaining a true sense of self.The chorus, "Where will we go and what will we be? If we can't communicate intelligently," introduces another important theme – the impact of effective communication on credibility. Here, Culture Club reminds us that credibility goes beyond mere appearances; it requires thoughtful and genuine expression. The line "There's a price on my head but I've never been free" delves into the idea that conformity and societal pressures can suffocate genuine self-expression, creating barriers that restrict personal growth and freedom. Central to this theme is the notion that one's credibility is intrinsically linked to their ability to communicate with authenticity and integrity.Moving further into the lyrics, the line "No more crying, no more trying, please, no more dying, I just wanna be free" brings forth a poignant theme of liberation and the longing for true freedom. In a world where credibility is often tangled with societal expectations, the desire for freedom becomes all the more necessary. This lyric serves as a reminder that becoming truly free requires breaking free from the shackles of perceived credibility and embracing one's unique and authentic self.A particularly thought-provoking lyric is "I'm taking the trouble right to your door, why'd you do it, you bastard? Don't love you no more." Here, the theme of accountability emerges – understanding the actions and motivations of others and acknowledging when someone no longer aligns with our values. It also touches on the idea that credibility can be eroded by the actions of others, forcing individuals to reassess their connections and prioritize their personal growth.The final line of the chorus, "I said, 'How d'ya keep your credibility?'" becomes a rallying cry, encapsulating the overarching theme of the song. It implores us to reflect on the complexities of maintaining credibility in a world brimming with contradictions, expectations, and societal pressures. In asking this question, Culture Club invites us to challenge our own notions of credibility and explore the extent to which we can stay true to ourselves in the face of adversity.Ultimately, 'How D’ya Keep Your Credibility?' invites introspection, urging us to question the foundations of credibility and its impact on our pursuit of individuality. Through its clever and imaginative lyrics, the song explores themes of identity, communication, freedom, authenticity, accountability, and the ever-evolving nature of credibility. In the end, Culture Club implores us to tread the path of true authenticity, seeking credibility not from others' expectations, but from a place of genuine self-expression and personal integrity.