Song meaning of Mr. Johnson by King Missile

The song "Mr. Johnson" by King Missile addresses the topic of prejudice and intolerance. The lyrics depict Mr. Johnson, a resident of the same street as the narrator, who mocks their unconventional appearance and calls them derogatory names. Despite these hurtful actions, the narrator and their friends refuse to become angry because they understand that Mr. Johnson's behavior stems from his own narrow-mindedness.

The chorus suggests a solution to bridge this gap of understanding and promote love and acceptance. It urges Mr. Johnson to wear a flower in his hair, symbolizing openness and embracing diversity. By doing so, he may begin to see that love is present all around him, and that his judgment and discrimination are hindering his ability to see the beauty and diversity in others.

The verses further highlight the narrator's long-standing relationship with Mr. Johnson. They acknowledge his disapproval when they engage in recreational drug use on his lawn, but instead of harboring resentment, they choose to diffuse the situation by walking away. This implies that the narrator understands that Mr. Johnson's narrow perspectives are a result of his upbringing and not necessarily a reflection of his true character.

Overall, the song's message is about the power of love and understanding in the face of bigotry and prejudice. It encourages empathy and compassion as a means to overcome these barriers and promote harmony within a community.