Song meaning of The Entertainer by Oingo Boingo

The lyrics of "The Entertainer" by Oingo Boingo convey a cautionary message about the entertainment industry and the deceptive nature of fame. The song warns aspiring artists about the manipulative tactics and false promises made by those in power.

The opening lines encourage the listener not to trust those who claim they can take care of everything and make them a star. The lyrics highlight the pressure to conform, follow orders, and abandon individuality in order to succeed. The line, "fall in line and you'll go far, by next year you'll be a star," reflects the industry's tendency to reward conformity over talent.

The lyrics also touch on the commercialization and exploitation of artists. The references to contracts, lawyers, accountants, and agents suggest the complex machinery behind the scenes, driven by profit and self-interest. The critics, promoters, and executives are portrayed as patronizing and waiting for an opportunity to strike, emphasizing the cutthroat nature of the industry.

The later verses show a defiant and self-assured perspective, with the artist refusing to be manipulated or taken advantage of. The lyrics indicate that the artist has a sense of their worth and is willing to protect their integrity, even if it means cutting ties with those who pretend to be their friends. The final lines caution that in this world, it's a matter of "me or you," highlighting the dog-eat-dog nature of the industry.

Overall, "The Entertainer" serves as a critique of the entertainment industry, cautioning artists to be wary of the false promises, exploitation, and sacrifice of personal values that can come with fame. The song urges artists to maintain their integrity and not allow themselves to be consumed by the pursuit of success.