July 25, 2025

Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

'We wanted to write a song that would be fantastic forever': Pulp's Common People turns 30

'We wanted to write a song that would be fantastic forever': Pulp's Common People turns 30

Summary

"Common People" by Pulp was released 30 years ago and is still popular. The song highlights themes of class and social change in 1990s Britain. The band's process in creating the song involved embracing unexpected changes in its rhythm.

Key Facts

  • "Common People" became Pulp's biggest hit 30 years ago.
  • The song deals with class and politics in 1990s Britain.
  • Pulp recorded the song in a studio in West London in 1995.
  • Band members initially thought the song's keyboard part sounded "rubbish."
  • The song's rhythm was adjusted to naturally speed up, like a "runaway train."
  • Lyrics mention a Greek student, leading to speculation about her identity.
  • The song was released during a time when Britpop music was very popular.
  • Despite its success, "Common People" did not reach number one on the charts.

Source Information