3 Essential Jake Burns Songs You Shouldn’t Miss
When it comes to punk rock, you can’t go wrong with Jake Burns.
Who is Jake Burns? He’s known globally as the frontman of Northern Irish band Stiff Little Fingers, a man with a distinctive voice and riveting guitar riffs that have stirred the hearts of punk rock enthusiasts for generations. From exploring personal battles with depression to engaging in bold political critiques, Burns’ songs reach out, inviting listeners into his world.
If you haven’t listened to any of his solo songs or his records with the band yet, do yourself a favor and give them a spin today. But don’t worry – we can help you get started. Read on as we at Jukebox Saturday Night discuss three of Burns’ defining tracks.
Song #1: ‘My dark places’
Analysis of lyrics and significance
‘My dark places’ is all about Jake Burns’ personal struggles with depression. The lyrics poignantly capture the weight of his depression and his journey to eventually learn to cope with it.
This track stands out due to its expression of vulnerability as well as its powerful message of resilience. Despite covering Burns’ lowest points in some of the lyrics, the song has a vibrant, upbeat vibe, which really emphasises the eventual light he found through perseverance and help from his loved ones.
The song is essentially an anthem of hope for many listeners who may be facing similar battles. It hammers home the point that no matter how hard things may get, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. The closing lyrics also emphasise how you need to take care of your mental health so you don’t end up falling back into the dark corners of your mind.
Context of song release
‘My dark places’ was released around the web on 15 March 2014, as part of Stiff Little Fingers’s tenth studio album, No Going Back. This was the first new studio album release for the band in eleven years, and it skyrocketed to the top spot on BBC Radio 1’s UK Top 40 Rock Album Charts – a testament to their staying power.
Depression is a very important topic for Burns in particular. He deals with his own struggles against the illness to this day, and his goal with ‘My dark places’ was to encourage more people to get the help they need.
Song #2: ‘Full steam backwards’
Song themes
‘Full steam backwards’, also from Stiff Little Fingers’ No Going Back album, revolves around the 2008 UK banking crisis. Many who have been affected by these troubling financial times would agree that Jake Burns and his band hit it out of the park.
Set against a vibrant punk rock soundtrack, the lyrics relay a scathing commentary on the crisis, capturing the anger and disillusionment felt by many during that time. It’s noteworthy how these lyrics, while specific to their era, also resonate in today’s context. It just goes to show that quality songs from R’n’R heaven about raging against the system are relatable, no matter what generation you’re from!
Song #3: ‘Suspect device’
Insight into the song’s political context
You never forget your firsts, and the same is true for Jake Burns music.
‘Suspect device’, Stiff Little Fingers’s debut single released in 1978, was made during a time of political and social unrest in Northern Ireland known as the Troubles. The title is a reference to the indiscriminate profiling and internment practices done by the government, resulting in the imprisonment of 2,000 people from 1971 to 1975.
The lyrics are a perfect embodiment of the frustrations people had towards the escalating tensions in the region. Burns sings ‘Suspect device’ almost like a rabid animal, his seething anger evident in how he tears down the inhumane actions of politicians and paramilitaries with his words.
Similar to the works of John Lennon, Yoko Ono and other artists, ‘Suspect device’ is a brutal indictment of political violence – a sentiment that some may argue is still completely relevant to this day. For this reason, it remains a high point in Stiff Little Fingers’ discography even after all these years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is Jake Burns famous for?
Jake Burns is renowned worldwide as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the celebrated punk rock band, Stiff Little Fingers. His soaring vocals and raging guitar riffs defined the band’s unique sound and garnered Burns a loyal following, countless career milestones and a place in popular culture.
Beyond his tenure with Stiff Little Fingers, Burns also carved out a notable solo career. His individual talent took centre stage in side projects like Jake Burns and the Big Wheel and 3 Men + Black. Many also consider Burns’ concerts some of the best live performances in the genre.
How did Jake Burns start his music career?
Jake Burns kick-started his illustrious musical career as part of a school band called Highway Star. Burns and his bandmates primarily did rock covers, but as they moved on to the punk rock genre, they decided to change their name to ‘Stiff Little Fingers’. They released their debut single ‘Suspect device’ towards the end of the 1970s and found a niche in the UK punk scene that catapulted them into the limelight.
What is Jake Burns’ influence on punk rock music?
Burns’ contribution to punk rock music stretches beyond merely helming Stiff Little Fingers. His signature raw energy, catchy melodies and lyrics laced with social consciousness shaped the band’s style and influenced the punk rock genre itself – just like other musical icons like The Stooges, Poison Ivy Rorschach and more.
Learn more at Jukebox Saturday Night
Jukebox Saturday Night is an hour-long program that airs on Foxtel, Aurora Channel 173 from 7.30 pm to 8.30 pm weekly on Saturday nights. Established through the efforts of a couple of mates, JBSN has evolved significantly over the years, amassing an exceptional fan base that consistently supports our mission.
Jukebox Saturday Night aims to provide an enriching musical experience for our loyal audience. We boast a website filled to the brim with interesting tidbits about your favourite rock icons, like Jake Burns, Darryl Sambell, the Beatles, and many more!
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