Song meaning of How Do You Do? by The Boomtown Rats

The lyrics of "How Do You Do?" by The Boomtown Rats seem to convey a message about the pressures and expectations placed upon individuals in the pursuit of success and fame. The song starts by expressing the need to listen to others, seemingly representing the society or industry dictating what one should or shouldn't do to achieve their goals.

The mention of shaking a thousand hands and meeting people with master plans and sweaty hands portrays the relentless effort and ambition required to climb the ladder of success. The question "Do you wanna be a rich man?" suggests a societal obsession with wealth and material success.

However, amidst all the pressure and expectations, the lyrics emphasize the importance of personal happiness and enjoyment. The phrase "But then it's alright, the band was good and it was Saturday night" highlights the fleeting moments of joy and satisfaction that ultimately matter. It underscores the idea that despite the pursuit of external validation and wealth, what truly matters is personal fulfillment and happiness.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of being used or taken advantage of in the pursuit of success, symbolized by being sat in a chair and asked to put one's name on a contract. This suggests that success may come at the cost of sacrificing personal autonomy and integrity.

Overall, "How Do You Do?" can be interpreted as a reflection on the pressures and compromises individuals face in the pursuit of success and the reminder to prioritize personal fulfillment and happiness above societal expectations.