What a Time features: Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals); Jimmy Haslip (bass); John Molo (drums); Jerry Garcia (guitar); John McLaughlin Williams (violin); Laura Roelofs Park (violin); Beverly K. Baker (viola); William Comita (cello).
Obviously, this song is about an incident that happened in a city somewhere, I would be grateful to anyone who could fill me in on when and where this happened. What seems to have happened is that “…round about midnight..the city went as black as coal” after what seems like a big power failure. Naturally enough, Hornsby would view this occurrence as occasion to celebrate some good times with the “Thousand people singing in the dark”. A reference in the song to a “landlord” cursing after the water tank burst in the back yard, suggests that Hornsby was in a pub at the time.
Carwyn Tywyn
What a Time meaning of the song
“What a Time” by Bruce Hornsby captures the chaos and unexpected experiences that can arise during a citywide power outage. The song reflects the feelings of uncertainty, disarray, and even a sense of camaraderie that can emerge in such situations. Through vivid imagery and a rhythmic flow, Bruce paints a picture of a community thrown into darkness, yet finding ways to adapt and respond.
The opening lines, “It came on fast when I heard the blast / And the main generator gave a giant gasp,” set the scene for the sudden loss of power. The use of “blast” evokes a sense of urgency, suggesting that the blackout is abrupt and disruptive. The phrase “the city went black as coal so fast” further emphasizes the swiftness of the event and the complete darkness that envelops the urban landscape.
Lyric references
“What a time” serves as a refrain that captures both the chaos and the potential for unexpected joy in difficult circumstances. This phrase acts as a juxtaposition, contrasting the negative aspects of the blackout with the communal experience it fosters. The lyrics describe people “fazing, hazing” and losing “all reason or rhyme,” indicating a departure from normalcy and a willingness to embrace the unexpected.
As the narrative progresses, lines like “It was bad to worse, as the landlord cursed / And the water tank in the backyard burst” illustrate the compounding difficulties faced by residents. This imagery highlights the frustrations and challenges of living in a disrupted environment. The juxtaposition of personal struggles with the broader experience of the community creates a sense of shared hardship.
“A thousand people singing in the dark / Couldn’t see a thing” underscores the theme of unity in adversity. Despite the blackout, the act of singing together in darkness suggests a powerful human connection that transcends the challenges posed by the situation. This moment encapsulates the resilience and creativity that often emerge in times of crisis.
Cultural references
The song’s themes can resonate with the cultural experience of urban life, where power outages are often disruptive but can also lead to moments of connection among residents. In a broader context, power outages can symbolize the fragility of modern infrastructure and the unexpected nature of life in a fast-paced world. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time when community and shared experiences were more prominent, even amidst chaos.
Final thoughts
“What a Time” by Bruce Hornsby is a poignant reflection on how unexpected events can disrupt daily life while also providing opportunities for connection and resilience. The song captures the essence of a community coming together in the face of adversity, highlighting the balance between chaos and camaraderie. Through vivid imagery and rhythmic storytelling, Bruce invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of navigating life’s uncertainties and the power of shared moments, even in the darkest of times.