Talking Heads – Psycho Killer

About The Song

“Psycho Killer” is a song by the American rock band Talking Heads, released in 1977 as the lead track from their debut album, “Talking Heads: 77.” The song is known for its distinctive lyrics and rhythmic guitar riff, and it has become one of Talking Heads’ most iconic and recognizable tracks.

Five facts about Talking Heads’ “Psycho Killer” (1977):

Lyric Inspiration: The lyrics were written by Talking Heads’ lead vocalist and songwriter David Byrne. The song’s narrator describes the thoughts of a serial killer, though the tone is somewhat humorous and detached.
French Connection: The chorus includes the repeated phrase “Psycho killer, qu’est-ce que c’est?” which translates to “Psycho killer, what is it?” in English. This line is sung in French, reflecting Byrne’s interest in incorporating diverse influences into the band’s music.
Influence of Punk and New Wave: “Psycho Killer” is often associated with the punk and new wave movements of the late 1970s. The song’s energetic and minimalist instrumentation, along with Byrne’s distinctive vocal delivery, contributed to the band’s unique sound.
Collaborative Effort: While David Byrne wrote the lyrics, the music for “Psycho Killer” was a collaborative effort by the entire band, including Tina Weymouth (bass), Chris Frantz (drums), and Jerry Harrison (keyboards and guitar).
Cultural Impact: The song has left a lasting impact on popular culture and has been covered by various artists. It is frequently featured in movies, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as one of Talking Heads’ most enduring and influential tracks.

Video

Lyrics

I can’t seem to face up to the facts
I’m tense and nervous and I can’t relax
I can’t sleep ’cause my bed’s on fire
Don’t touch me, I’m a real live wire

Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ay-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya, ooh

You start a conversation, you can’t even finish it
You’re talking a lot, but you’re not saying anything
When I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed
Say something once, why say it again?

Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ay-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya

Ce que j’ai fait, ce soir-là
Ce qu’elle a dit, ce soir-là
Réalisant mon espoir
Je me lance vers la gloire, okay
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
We are vain and we are blind
I hate people when they’re not polite

Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh-oh-oh
Psycho Killer
Qu’est-ce que c’est?
Fa-fa-fa-fa, fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa, better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run away, oh, oh, oh, oh
Ai-ya-ya-ya-ya-ya, ooh