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Music Video: the only rock song I know that features a harpsichord is . . .

Golden Brown - The Stranglers

“Golden Brown” by the punk/new-wave/post-punk band, The Stranglers, from their 1981 album, La Folie.

In addition to the liberal use of harpsichord, you’ve gotta love the time signature alternating between 6/8 and 7/8 in the main riff.  Given that the song’s title refers to obsession with heroin, a girl, or both, the occasionally disjointed rhythm is perfect.

You have to endure the high-concept early-80’s video that looks oh-so dated now, but it’s still worth it.

9 thoughts on “Music Video: the only rock song I know that features a harpsichord is . . .

  1. The Monkees’ “The Girl I Knew Somewhere” has a lovely harpsichord solo. There’s a harpsichord in several Beatles songs, Simon & Garfunkel’s “Scarborough Fair,” some Beach Boys songs.. There’s a LOT of harpsichord in pop/rock music.

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  2. Ah, good to know. Tim Mangan reminded me about “Piggies” by the Beatles. Admittedly, I am less familiar with that era’s music (beyond the more popular singles), though I’m not surprised that harpsichord found its way into the bands you name.

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