The Breeders and Their Music

The Breeders are an American alternative rock band formed in 1989 by Kim Deal of the Pixies and Tanya Donelly of Throwing Muses. They are most well-known for their 1993 hit single “Cannonball”, which was a top 20 hit in the UK and a top 10 hit in Australia and New Zealand. The band has gone through several lineup changes since its formation, but Deal and Donelly remain the two core members.

The Meaning of “Cannonball”

While the lyrics of “Cannonball” are open to interpretation, the song is generally thought to be about the power of love and the strength it can give someone, even in the face of adversity. The song follows the story of a person who is facing an uncertain future and is desperately searching for something to cling to. The chorus of the song speaks to this feeling of need: “Come on, come on, come on, come on, take me away/Cannonball, it\’s time to fly/Don\’t you think it\’s time to try?” The song is ultimately a call for the power of love to help the narrator escape their current state of uncertainty and give them the courage to move forward.

The Music of “Cannonball”

Musically, “Cannonball” is driven by a driving, distorted electric guitar riff and a heavy drum beat which creates an intense and powerful sound. The song also features Kim Deal’s signature vocal style, which is often described as “child-like” yet possessing a unique power and emotion.

The Impact of “Cannonball”

The success of “Cannonball” saw The Breeders become one of the most successful alternative rock bands of the 1990s, and the song itself has gone on to become a classic of the era. It has been covered by a wide range of artists, from Amy Winehouse to The Flaming Lips, and has featured in several films, including “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” and “The Fault in Our Stars”.

The Legacy of “Cannonball”

“Cannonball” is a song that has stood the test of time, and its legacy continues to live on in the music world. The song’s lyrics and message of hope and courage still resonate with listeners today, and it remains an iconic track of the 1990s.

Conclusion

“Cannonball” is an iconic track from The Breeders, and its powerful lyrics and intense music have made it a classic of the alternative rock era. The song’s message of hope and courage in the face of adversity is still relevant today, and its success has seen it become an enduring classic.