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Joy Division – She’s Lost Control – 1979

About The Song


“She’s Lost Control” is a post-punk classic by the British band Joy Division, released in 1979. The song is known for its distinctive sound, haunting lyrics, and its influential impact on the post-punk and new wave genres. Here are five facts about the song:

  1. Release and Album: “She’s Lost Control” was released as a single in 1979 and later included on Joy Division’s debut album, “Unknown Pleasures.” The album is often regarded as a seminal work in post-punk music.
  2. Lyrical Inspiration: The lyrics of “She’s Lost Control” were inspired by the personal experiences of Joy Division’s lead singer, Ian Curtis. The song explores themes of mental health and the struggles Curtis observed in a woman’s life.
  3. Production: The song is notable for its unique production, featuring atmospheric synthesizers, a driving bassline by Peter Hook, and the distinctive drumming of Stephen Morris. The combination of these elements contributed to the song’s innovative and influential sound.
  4. Cover Versions: “She’s Lost Control” has been covered by several artists across different genres, showcasing its enduring impact and influence. The song’s dark and atmospheric qualities have made it a source of inspiration for many musicians.
  5. Ian Curtis’ Tragic Death: Sadly, Ian Curtis, the lead singer and lyricist of Joy Division, took his own life in May 1980, just before the band was set to embark on their first North American tour. His death added a tragic layer to the legacy of Joy Division and their impact on the post-punk movement.

Video

Lyrics

Confusion in her eyes that says it all
She’s lost control
And she’s clinging to the nearest passerby
She’s lost control
And she gave away the secrets of her past
And said, “I’ve lost control again”
And to the voice that told her when and where to act
She said, “I’ve lost control again”

And she turned around and took me by the hand
And said, “I’ve lost control again”
And how I’ll never know just why or understand
She said, “I’ve lost control again”
And she screamed out, kicking on her side, and said
“I’ve lost control again”
And seized up on the floor, I thought she’d die
She said, “I’ve lost control”

She’s lost control again
She’s lost control
She’s lost control again
She’s lost control

That I had to phone her friend to state my case
And say she’s lost control again
And she showed up all the errors and mistakes
And said, “I’ve lost control again”
And she expressed herself in many different ways
Until she lost control again
And walked upon the edge of no escape
And laughed, “I’ve lost control”

She’s lost control again
She’s lost control
She’s lost control again
She’s lost control