A Sharp Commentary on Media Obsession and Isolation: Genesis’ “Turn It On Again”
“Turn It On Again,” a vibrant and rhythmically complex track from Genesis, serves as a biting commentary on the isolating effects of media consumption and the illusory relationships forged with television personalities. Released in 1980 on their album “Duke,” this song became a significant hit for the band, reaching number 8 on the UK Singles Chart and number 58 on the Billboard Hot 100. It marked a pivotal moment in Genesis’s evolution, showcasing their ability to blend intricate musical arrangements with insightful social commentary, all while crafting a catchy, radio-friendly tune. For many of us who witnessed the burgeoning age of television and its growing influence on our lives, “Turn It On Again” struck a resonant chord, reflecting a burgeoning unease about the blurring lines between reality and manufactured entertainment.
The song’s genesis stemmed from the band’s observations of the increasing reliance on television as a source of companionship and entertainment. Tony Banks, the band’s keyboardist and primary composer, crafted the song’s intricate musical structure, while Phil Collins contributed the lyrics, which explored the theme of a person who finds solace and connection in the fictional world of television. The lyrics, while seemingly lighthearted on the surface, delve into the darker aspects of media obsession, portraying a character who forms deep emotional attachments to television personalities, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. It was a theme that felt increasingly relevant as television became an omnipresent force in our lives, shaping our perceptions and influencing our relationships.
For those of us who grew up in the late 70s and early 80s, “Turn It On Again” felt like a reflection of our own experiences, a mirror to the changing landscape of our social interactions. The song’s driving rhythm and infectious melody provided a backdrop for the lyrics’ poignant message, creating a sense of both exhilaration and unease. The unusual 13/8 time signature, a testament to Genesis’s musical ingenuity, added a layer of complexity to the track, mirroring the distorted reality portrayed in the lyrics. It was a time when the glow of the television screen began to cast a long shadow, influencing our perceptions of the world and our relationships with others.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the anxieties of a generation grappling with the rapid advancements in technology and media. It spoke to the growing sense of isolation and the yearning for connection in an increasingly mediated world. The lyrics’ portrayal of a character who finds solace in television resonated with those who felt alienated and disconnected from the real world. It was a reminder that while media can provide entertainment and information, it can also create a sense of detachment and isolation, particularly when it replaces genuine human interaction.
The interplay between Collins’s emotive vocals and the band’s intricate musical arrangements created a powerful and evocative listening experience. The song’s bridge, with its haunting harmonies and introspective lyrics, provided a moment of reflection, highlighting the emotional toll of media obsession. The song’s message, though delivered with a pop sensibility, was a warning, an observation about the potential for technology to isolate.
“Turn It On Again” remains a testament to Genesis’s ability to craft intelligent and thought-provoking music that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level. It’s a song that captures the spirit of a bygone era, a time when the lines between reality and fantasy were becoming increasingly blurred. It’s a nostalgic reminder of the growing influence of media, and a timeless commentary on the human need for genuine connection.